The great property breakup

The podcast explores whether New Zealand's long-standing preference for property investment is declining, with KiwiSaver and managed funds emerging as attractive alternatives. ANZ's chief economist Sharon Zolna suggests that while the housing market has undergone a significant but orderly correction, investors are now wary due to falling rents and still-high interest rates. Business Desk property editor Maria Slade believes a shift is occurring, with houses increasingly viewed as homes rather than investments, influenced by tighter regulations and rising costs. Chief Property Economist at Cotality, Kelvin Davidson, notes that increased intensification through townhouses may lead to better housing affordability, though the market is currently experiencing an oversupply of certain townhouse types due to design issues and parking constraints.