From Rugby Fields to Family Homes: The Enduring Appeal of Lifestyle Properties
The recent sale of former All Blacks captain Kieran Read’s family home has shone a spotlight on a growing trend: the desire for lifestyle properties that offer space, privacy, and a connection to the outdoors. But this isn’t just about sporting heroes seeking a peaceful retreat. It’s a shift in priorities for families across New Zealand, driven by changing lifestyles and a renewed appreciation for space.
The Great Outdoors Beckons: Why Lifestyle Blocks are Booming
For decades, the classic Kiwi dream revolved around a quarter-acre section. Now, that’s often not enough. The Reads, like many families, were looking to upsize, seeking a property where their children could roam freely. This demand is particularly strong in areas surrounding major cities like Auckland, Hamilton, and Christchurch, where land is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. Data from OneRoof shows a consistent increase in searches for lifestyle properties over the past five years, with a significant spike following the COVID-19 lockdowns.
“People reassessed what they wanted from their homes during the pandemic,” explains property expert Jane Blackmore. “The ability to work from home, combined with a desire for more space and self-sufficiency, fueled the demand for lifestyle blocks.” This isn’t just about acreage; it’s about the *potential* – the possibility of running a few animals, growing your own vegetables, or simply enjoying a more relaxed pace of life.
Beyond the Backyard: The Rise of the ‘Near-Rural’ Lifestyle
The appeal isn’t limited to those wanting a full-scale farm. A growing segment of buyers are seeking what’s being termed the ‘near-rural’ lifestyle – properties that offer a taste of country living while remaining within easy commuting distance of urban centers. This is particularly evident in areas like Karaka, where the Read family home was located. Proximity to good schools, like ACG Strathallan, is also a major drawcard for families.
This trend is impacting property values. While larger lifestyle blocks can be expensive, smaller ‘hobby farms’ – typically between 1 and 5 acres – are becoming increasingly accessible, offering a more affordable entry point into this lifestyle. Recent sales data shows that properties with development potential, such as the ability to add a minor dwelling, are attracting significant interest.
The Caravan Connection: A New Chapter for Empty Nesters
The Read family’s plans to embrace caravan life highlight another emerging trend: the desire for freedom and flexibility in retirement. Many empty nesters are downsizing from large family homes to smaller properties or mobile living options, allowing them to travel and spend more time with grandchildren. This is driving demand for well-maintained caravans and motorhomes, as well as properties that offer easy access to scenic routes and outdoor activities.
“We’ve done our dash having animals,” Marilyn Read told OneRoof. “We have got a caravan and like to up and go.” This sentiment reflects a broader shift towards prioritizing experiences over possessions, particularly among those entering retirement.
Future Trends: Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency
Looking ahead, the demand for lifestyle properties is likely to be further fueled by growing concerns about sustainability and self-sufficiency. Interest in permaculture, organic gardening, and renewable energy is on the rise, and buyers are increasingly seeking properties that allow them to live more sustainably. Expect to see a greater emphasis on features like rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and eco-friendly building materials.
The rise of remote work will also continue to play a role, allowing more people to live further from urban centers without sacrificing their careers. This could lead to increased demand for lifestyle properties in more remote areas, potentially driving up prices in those locations.
What Buyers Need to Consider
While the lifestyle dream is appealing, it’s important to be realistic about the challenges. Lifestyle properties often require more maintenance than traditional suburban homes, and there may be additional costs associated with things like fencing, pest control, and water supply. It’s also crucial to consider the practicalities of commuting, accessing amenities, and managing the property effectively.
FAQ: Lifestyle Properties – Your Questions Answered
- What is a lifestyle property? A lifestyle property is typically a larger block of land (usually over 1 acre) that offers a more rural or semi-rural lifestyle.
- Are lifestyle properties more expensive to maintain? Generally, yes. They require more upkeep in terms of gardening, fencing, and potentially animal care.
- What should I look for when buying a lifestyle property? Consider factors like water supply, soil quality, fencing, access to amenities, and zoning regulations.
- Is a lifestyle property a good investment? It can be, but it depends on the location, the property’s potential, and your long-term goals.
Explore more properties for sale: Browse listings on OneRoof
Share your thoughts! Are you considering a lifestyle change? Let us know in the comments below!
