Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the New Zealand Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Christchurch's property market is included in our pack
Christchurch is New Zealand's second-largest city and offers a wide range of residential properties, from affordable units in the eastern suburbs to luxury hillside homes with stunning views.
In this article, we break down the current housing prices in Christchurch, and we constantly update this blog post to reflect the latest market data.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, an expat, or an investor, you'll find clear and practical price information below.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Christchurch.
Insights
- The Christchurch median sale price of NZD 710,000 sits about 10% below the average value benchmark of NZD 787,000, which tells you that luxury homes are pulling the average up.
- Newer homes in Christchurch command a 10% to 20% premium over older properties, mainly because of better insulation, double glazing, and lower maintenance risks.
- In Riccarton, homes sell about 1.6% below their asking price, while in Ilam they often sell above asking due to strong auction competition for school-zone properties.
- About 60% to 70% of Christchurch listings are detached houses, but townhouses now represent 20% to 30% of the market as density increases.
- Fendalton remains the most expensive neighborhood in Christchurch, with average prices ranging from NZD 1.2 million to NZD 2.8 million for family homes.
- Christchurch property prices rose only 1% to 2% nominally over the past year, which means they actually fell in real terms once you account for 3% inflation.
- Entry-level buyers in Christchurch can find older 2-bedroom units starting around NZD 400,000 to NZD 550,000 in suburbs like Linwood or Hornby.
- The price per square meter in Christchurch averages around NZD 4,400 to NZD 4,600, but premium suburbs like Merivale can reach NZD 8,000 per square meter.
What is the average housing price in Christchurch in 2026?
The median housing price is more useful than the average because it represents the true middle of the market, while the average can be distorted by a few expensive luxury sales.
We are writing this as of the first half of 2026, using the latest data from late 2025 releases that we manually verified from authoritative New Zealand property sources.
The median housing price in Christchurch in 2026 is approximately NZD 710,000 (about $410,000 or €349,000). The average housing price, based on value benchmarks, is higher at around NZD 787,000 (about $454,000 or €387,000).
About 80% of residential properties in Christchurch in 2026 fall within the NZD 450,000 to NZD 1,200,000 range (roughly $260,000 to $693,000 or €221,000 to €590,000).
A realistic entry range in the Christchurch market is NZD 400,000 to NZD 550,000 ($231,000 to $318,000 or €197,000 to €270,000), which typically gets you an older 2-bedroom unit of 60 to 80 square meters in suburbs like Linwood or Hornby.
Luxury properties in Christchurch in 2026 typically range from NZD 1,800,000 to NZD 3,500,000 or more ($1.04 million to $2.02 million or €884,000 to €1.72 million), which includes large 4 to 5 bedroom architecturally designed homes of 250 to 400 square meters in premium areas like Fendalton, Merivale, or the Cashmere Hills.
By the way, you will find much more detailed price ranges in our property pack covering the real estate market in Christchurch.
Are Christchurch property listing prices close to the actual sale price in 2026?
In Christchurch in 2026, the typical difference between listed prices and actual sale prices is around 2% to 5%, and it can go in either direction.
This happens because many Christchurch properties are listed as "deadline sale," "negotiation," or "auction" rather than with a fixed asking price, so the listed figure is often a marketing anchor rather than the seller's real bottom line. The gap varies most for well-located family homes in popular school zones, where multiple bidders at auction can push the final price above the asking figure.
Get fresh and reliable information about the market in Christchurch
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What is the price per sq m or per sq ft for properties in Christchurch in 2026?
As of early 2026, the estimated median price per square meter in Christchurch is around NZD 4,440 ($2,560 or €2,180) and the average is about NZD 4,630 ($2,670 or €2,270). In terms of price per square foot, the Christchurch median is roughly NZD 412 ($238 or €203) and the average is around NZD 430 ($248 or €211).
Smaller, well-finished homes in premium locations tend to have the highest price per square meter in Christchurch, while larger older houses in less central areas have the lowest because renovation risk is factored into the price.
The highest price per square meter in Christchurch in 2026 is found in Fendalton, Merivale, and Sumner, where prices can reach NZD 6,000 to NZD 9,000 per square meter. The lowest ranges are in suburbs like Linwood, Aranui, and Hornby, where prices typically sit between NZD 3,200 and NZD 4,400 per square meter.
How have property prices evolved in Christchurch?
Compared to one year ago, Christchurch property prices have increased by about 1% to 2% in nominal terms. However, with annual inflation at 3%, prices have actually fallen slightly in real purchasing power terms, mainly because higher mortgage rates have capped what buyers can afford.
Looking back roughly 10 years, Christchurch prices have risen an estimated 50% to 70% in nominal terms. After adjusting for inflation over that period, the real increase is closer to 15% to 35%, driven largely by post-earthquake rebuilding constraints and the national credit cycle.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing the latest updates on property price variations in Christchurch.
Finally, if you want to know whether now is a good time to buy a property there, you can check our pack covering everything there is to know about the housing market in Christchurch.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in New Zealand versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What types of properties are available and how do prices vary in Christchurch in 2026?
Christchurch remains a "house city," with detached houses making up about 60% to 70% of listings, townhouses and units accounting for 20% to 30%, apartments around 3% to 7%, and lifestyle blocks or other properties at 2% to 5%.
In Christchurch as of the first half of 2026, apartments typically range from NZD 450,000 to NZD 750,000 ($260,000 to $433,000 or €221,000 to €368,000). Newer townhouses generally cost NZD 600,000 to NZD 950,000 ($346,000 to $548,000 or €295,000 to €467,000). Standalone family houses range from NZD 650,000 to NZD 1,100,000 ($375,000 to $635,000 or €319,000 to €540,000). Character villas in good school zones typically cost NZD 900,000 to NZD 1,600,000 ($520,000 to $924,000 or €442,000 to €786,000), while large premium homes start at NZD 1,600,000 and can exceed NZD 3,500,000.
If you want to know more, you should read our dedicated analyses:
- How much do properties cost in Christchurch?
- How much should you pay for a house in Christchurch?
- How much should you pay for an apartment in Christchurch?
- How much should you pay for lands in Christchurch?
- How much should you pay for a townhouse in Christchurch?
- How much should you pay for a studio in Christchurch?
How do property prices compare between existing and new homes in Christchurch in 2026?
In Christchurch in 2026, new or newer homes typically sell for 10% to 20% more than comparable older properties.
This premium exists because newer homes usually have better thermal performance with double glazing and modern insulation, plus they carry less risk of expensive surprise repairs for things like rewiring, re-roofing, or foundation issues.
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How do property prices vary by neighborhood in Christchurch in 2026?
Merivale is a premium neighborhood popular with expats, located close to the CBD with excellent cafes and strong school zones. Prices here typically range from NZD 1,000,000 to NZD 2,000,000 ($577,000 to $1,150,000 or €491,000 to €982,000), reflecting the walkable lifestyle and mix of renovated character homes and modern townhouses.
Fendalton is Christchurch's top-tier family suburb, known for its elite school zoning, large established homes, and quiet tree-lined streets. Average prices range from NZD 1,200,000 to NZD 2,800,000 ($693,000 to $1,620,000 or €590,000 to €1,375,000), making it one of the most expensive areas in the South Island.
Sumner offers a coastal lifestyle on the eastern edge of Christchurch, with beach access and hillside views driving demand. Properties here typically range from NZD 950,000 to NZD 2,000,000 ($548,000 to $1,150,000 or €467,000 to €982,000), with view sites commanding the highest premiums.
You will find a much more detailed analysis by areas in our property pack about Christchurch. Meanwhile, here is a quick summary table we have made so you can understand how prices change across areas:
| Neighborhood | Character | Avg Price Range (NZD / USD) | Avg per sqm (NZD / USD) | Avg per sqft (NZD / USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linwood | Value / practical | 420k-650k / 242k-375k | 3,200-4,300 / 1,850-2,480 | 297-399 / 171-230 |
| Hornby | Value / family | 450k-680k / 260k-393k | 3,300-4,400 / 1,905-2,540 | 307-409 / 177-235 |
| Addington | Commute / townhouse-heavy | 520k-800k / 300k-462k | 4,000-5,200 / 2,310-3,000 | 372-483 / 214-279 |
| Riccarton | Commute / rental demand | 550k-900k / 318k-520k | 4,000-5,400 / 2,310-3,120 | 372-502 / 214-290 |
| Papanui | Family / north | 600k-950k / 346k-548k | 4,200-5,800 / 2,425-3,350 | 390-539 / 225-311 |
| Halswell | Family / new subdivisions | 750k-1.1m / 433k-635k | 4,200-5,700 / 2,425-3,290 | 390-530 / 225-305 |
| St Albans | Popular / near-city | 750k-1.2m / 433k-693k | 4,800-6,200 / 2,770-3,580 | 446-576 / 257-332 |
| Ilam | Schools / premium family | 800k-1.4m / 462k-809k | 5,000-6,800 / 2,890-3,930 | 465-632 / 268-365 |
| Cashmere | Views / premium | 900k-1.7m / 520k-982k | 5,200-7,200 / 3,000-4,160 | 483-669 / 279-386 |
| Sumner | Beach / lifestyle | 950k-2m / 548k-1.15m | 5,500-7,800 / 3,180-4,500 | 511-725 / 295-418 |
| Merivale | Expat / walkable premium | 1m-2m / 577k-1.15m | 5,800-8,000 / 3,350-4,620 | 539-743 / 311-429 |
| Fendalton | Top-tier family | 1.2m-2.8m / 693k-1.62m | 6,200-9,000 / 3,580-5,200 | 576-836 / 332-475 |
How much more do you pay for properties in Christchurch when you include renovation work, taxes, and fees?
When buying a property in Christchurch in 2026, the typical buyer pays an additional 0.5% to 1.5% of the purchase price in fees and reports, though renovation costs can add 5% to 30% or more depending on the property's condition.
If you buy a property around $200,000 (about NZD 346,000) in Christchurch, expect to pay roughly NZD 4,000 to NZD 6,000 ($2,300 to $3,500) in legal fees, inspections, and reports. If the home is in tidy condition, your total cost would be around NZD 350,000 to NZD 352,000 ($202,000 to $203,000).
For a property around $500,000 (about NZD 866,000), fees typically run NZD 6,000 to NZD 10,000 ($3,500 to $5,800). If a cosmetic refresh is needed (new paint, flooring, minor kitchen updates), add NZD 30,000 to NZD 60,000, bringing your all-in cost to roughly NZD 902,000 to NZD 936,000 ($520,000 to $540,000).
At the $1,000,000 level (about NZD 1,730,000), buyer fees are typically NZD 8,000 to NZD 12,000 ($4,600 to $6,900). If the property needs significant upgrades like a full kitchen and bathroom renovation plus heating improvements, budget an additional NZD 150,000 to NZD 300,000, which could bring your total to NZD 1,880,000 to NZD 2,042,000 ($1.09 million to $1.18 million).
Meanwhile, here is a detailed table of the additional expenses you may have to pay when buying a new property in Christchurch
| Expense | Category | Estimated Cost Range (NZD / USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Conveyancing / legal | Fees | NZD 1,500-3,500 / $870-2,020. This covers the lawyer handling your purchase contract, title transfer, and settlement. Costs vary based on transaction complexity. |
| Building inspection | Fees | NZD 500-900 / $290-520. A qualified inspector checks the property's structure, weathertightness, and major systems. Essential for older Christchurch homes. |
| LIM report | Fees | NZD 300-450 / $173-260. This council report details the property's zoning, consents, and any known issues. It can reveal important information about land stability or flood zones. |
| Valuation | Fees | NZD 700-1,200 / $404-693. Required by most lenders to confirm the property's market value before approving your mortgage. |
| Moving and setup | Logistics | NZD 1,000-3,000 / $577-1,730. Covers moving truck hire, furniture transport, and basic setup costs. Depends on distance and volume. |
| Immediate repairs buffer | Renovation | NZD 2,000-10,000 / $1,155-5,770. Smart buyers budget for small fixes like locks, minor plumbing, or electrical items discovered after moving in. |
| Cosmetic renovation | Renovation | NZD 30,000-60,000 / $17,300-34,650. Covers painting, new flooring, and minor kitchen or bathroom updates. Common for older Christchurch properties. |
| Major renovation | Renovation | NZD 150,000-300,000 / $86,600-173,200. Full kitchen and bathroom replacement, heating upgrades, insulation, rewiring, or structural work. Often needed for pre-earthquake homes. |
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in New Zealand compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What properties can you buy in Christchurch in 2026 with different budgets?
With $100,000 (about NZD 173,000), there is not really a normal freehold residential market in Christchurch at this price level. You might find car parks, retirement village leasehold arrangements, or unusual partial ownership structures, but no standard houses or apartments.
With $200,000 (about NZD 346,000), you could potentially find a small studio or tiny 1-bedroom unit in an older condition in a less central area, an older 1-bedroom unit needing significant work in suburbs like Linwood, or an unusual title arrangement that requires careful legal review.
With $300,000 (about NZD 520,000), your options include a 2-bedroom older unit of 60 to 90 square meters in Linwood, a 2-bedroom existing unit in Hornby suitable as a practical commuter base, or a small townhouse on the city's edge with an older fit-out.
With $500,000 (about NZD 866,000), you can buy a 3-bedroom townhouse of 110 to 140 square meters in Addington with newer finishes, a 3-bedroom house of 130 to 170 square meters in Halswell, or a 2 to 3 bedroom townhouse in Riccarton with a mix of existing and newer stock.
With $1,000,000 (about NZD 1,730,000), you can purchase a renovated 4-bedroom family home of 200 to 280 square meters in Ilam, a 4-bedroom home in Cashmere on a view-adjacent street, or a smaller but well-located property in the coastal suburb of Sumner.
With $2,000,000 (about NZD 3,460,000), you enter Christchurch's true luxury market. Options include a high-end modern home of 300 to 450 square meters in Fendalton with premium finishes, an architectural hillside home in Cashmere or Sumner with panoramic views, or a land-plus-build opportunity in a premium zone where land value forms most of the price.
If you need a more detailed analysis, we have a blog article detailing what you can buy at different budget levels in Christchurch.
What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Christchurch, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can … and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source Name | Why It's Authoritative | How We Used It |
|---|---|---|
| QV House Price Index | QV is one of New Zealand's longest-standing property data providers, and its index is widely referenced by media and industry professionals. | We used QV data to anchor the average value benchmark for Christchurch at around NZD 787,000 as of late 2025. We treated this as a value estimate rather than a negotiated sale price. |
| Harcourts Christchurch | Harcourts is one of New Zealand's largest real estate agencies with strong local market presence and regular data releases. | We used their October 2025 market update to establish the Christchurch median sale price at around NZD 710,000. We also used their year-on-year comparison for our 1-year price change estimate. |
| realestate.co.nz (Riccarton) | This is a major New Zealand property portal that clearly distinguishes between REINZ sales data and their own listing data. | We used this suburb page to compare median asking prices versus median sale prices in Riccarton. We found asking prices were about 1.6% above sold prices in this suburb. |
| realestate.co.nz (Ilam) | Same authoritative portal with suburb-specific data for a higher-end neighborhood, useful for contrast. | We used Ilam data to show that sold prices can exceed asking prices when auction competition is strong. We used both suburbs to triangulate a realistic asking-versus-sold range. |
| Reserve Bank of New Zealand | The RBNZ is New Zealand's central bank and publishes official daily exchange rates used throughout the financial system. | We used mid-December 2025 exchange rates (1 NZD = 0.577 USD and 0.491 EUR) to convert all prices consistently. We applied these same rates throughout for clean comparisons. |
| Stats NZ (CPI) | Stats NZ is New Zealand's official statistics agency, and CPI is the standard measure of inflation. | We used CPI data to explain inflation-adjusted price comparisons over time. We referenced the 3.0% annual inflation rate for September 2025 to calculate real price changes. |
| Infometrics Regional Profile | Infometrics provides economic data used by councils and government agencies across New Zealand. | We used their Christchurch City house value data to cross-reference and validate our QV-based average price benchmarks. |
| Local real estate agency listings | Direct observation of current listings provides real-time market context that published data may lag. | We reviewed active listings across multiple Christchurch agencies to verify our price ranges by neighborhood and property type. |
| REINZ (via realestate.co.nz) | The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand provides the most widely cited official sales statistics. | We used REINZ-sourced median sale figures displayed on realestate.co.nz suburb pages to anchor our neighborhood price estimates. |
| Christchurch City Council LIM data | Council records provide authoritative information on zoning, consents, and property characteristics. | We referenced typical LIM report costs and their importance for due diligence when estimating buyer transaction fees. |
| Local building inspection services | Licensed inspectors provide current market rates for pre-purchase inspections. | We surveyed typical inspection fees in Christchurch to establish the NZD 500-900 range for our expense estimates. |
| Christchurch conveyancing lawyers | Local legal professionals set current market rates for property transactions. | We used typical conveyancing fee quotes from Christchurch law firms to establish the NZD 1,500-3,500 legal cost range. |
| Local renovation contractors | Builders and tradespeople provide realistic cost estimates for property improvements. | We gathered quotes from Christchurch contractors to establish cosmetic (NZD 30k-60k) and major (NZD 150k-300k) renovation cost ranges. |
| CoreLogic New Zealand | CoreLogic is a major property data provider used by banks and real estate professionals. | We cross-referenced CoreLogic commentary on Christchurch market trends to validate our year-on-year price movement estimates. |
| Trade Me Property | Trade Me is New Zealand's largest online marketplace with extensive property listings. | We reviewed Trade Me listings to verify price ranges by property type and confirm neighborhood market positioning. |
| OneRoof Property | OneRoof provides property valuations and market data through its partnership with data providers. | We used OneRoof suburb profiles to cross-check our neighborhood price range estimates against their valuation data. |
| New Zealand Government (land.govt.nz) | Official government portal for land information and title records. | We referenced government resources to understand title types and ownership structures relevant to our property examples. |
| Christchurch school zone maps | School zoning significantly impacts property values in certain neighborhoods. | We used school zone information to explain why suburbs like Ilam and Fendalton command premium prices in Christchurch. |
| New Zealand Valuation Services | Registered valuers provide independent market value assessments. | We used typical valuation fee quotes (NZD 700-1,200) to inform our buyer expense estimates. |
| Moving company quotes | Local moving companies provide current market rates for relocation services. | We surveyed Christchurch moving companies to establish the NZD 1,000-3,000 moving and setup cost range. |
| Historic QV data (2015) | Historical price data allows meaningful long-term comparisons. | We used historical QV benchmarks to estimate the 50-70% nominal price increase over approximately 10 years. |
| Stats NZ historical CPI series | Historical inflation data enables accurate real price calculations. | We used cumulative CPI data to calculate that real Christchurch price growth over 10 years is closer to 15-35% after inflation. |
| Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority archives | Post-earthquake recovery significantly shaped Christchurch's property market. | We referenced rebuild context to explain why supply constraints and land issues continue to influence Christchurch property values. |
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