How to buy a house in Christchurch?

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

Who is the author of this content?

BAMBOOROUTES

A team specialized in real estate investing in APAC countries (Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Christchurch. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the New Zealand real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Christchurch, Auckland, and Wellington. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Can foreigners actually buy property in Christchurch, and what types of properties are they allowed to purchase?

Foreign property ownership in Christchurch is heavily restricted under New Zealand's Overseas Investment Act, with most non-residents prohibited from buying existing residential homes.

New Zealand citizens, Australian citizens, Singaporean citizens, and New Zealand residents holding a residence class visa who are "ordinarily resident" can purchase any residential property without restrictions. This includes houses, apartments, townhouses, and vacant residential land throughout Christchurch.

Foreign buyers on temporary visas, visitor visas, or without any visa are generally prohibited from purchasing residential property in Christchurch. Limited exceptions exist for buying brand new properties in certain designated developments, but these opportunities are rare and subject to strict government approval.

New Zealand residents who hold a residence class visa but are not considered "ordinarily resident" may apply for consent through the Overseas Investment Office (OIO) to purchase a home, but only as their main residence. Investment purchases are not permitted under this category, and buyers must meet strict occupancy requirements for several years after purchase.

It's something we develop in our New Zealand property pack.

What is the exact step-by-step process for buying a house in Christchurch from start to finish?

Step	Process	Timeline
1. Eligibility Check	Verify visa status and determine if OIO consent required	1-2 days
2. Property Search	Find properties through agents or online listings	2-8 weeks
3. OIO Application	Apply for consent if required (non-residents/conditional residents)	10-30 days
4. Due Diligence	Obtain LIM report, building inspections, title searches	1-2 weeks
5. Legal Review	Engage conveyancing lawyer to review documentation	3-5 days
6. Make Offer	Submit offer via auction, tender, or direct negotiation	1-3 days
7. Sign Contract	Execute Sale & Purchase Agreement and pay deposit	Same day
8. Final Inspections	Complete building, pest, and structural inspections	1-2 weeks
9. Settlement	Transfer funds, complete title registration	Settlement date
10. Move In	Take possession of property	After settlement

What documents do I need to prepare, and which ones are mandatory versus optional?

Mandatory documents for all foreign buyers include a valid passport, proof of visa or citizenship status, evidence of funds availability, and a completed Residential Land Statement confirming your eligibility to purchase.

If Overseas Investment Office consent is required, you must provide additional documentation including proof of intention to use the property as your main home, evidence of ties to New Zealand, and detailed financial statements. The OIO application itself costs NZ$2,040 for standard residential properties.

Legal documentation requirements include the Land Information Memorandum (LIM) from Christchurch City Council, property title documents, building consent certificates, and code compliance certificates. These documents verify the property's legal status, building history, and any restrictions or hazards.

Optional but strongly recommended documents include professional building inspection reports, moisture inspection reports, methamphetamine contamination tests, and structural integrity assessments. Given Christchurch's earthquake history, earthquake strengthening reports are particularly important for older buildings.

Insurance documents, architectural plans for unique properties, and existing tenant agreements (for rental properties) may also be required depending on the specific property and purchase circumstances.

Can I buy a house in Christchurch without physically being in New Zealand?

Yes, you can purchase a Christchurch property remotely using power of attorney arrangements and qualified legal representatives to handle the transaction on your behalf.

A qualified conveyancing lawyer can manage document signing, funds transfer, and property inspections through power of attorney. However, all legal documentation must be properly notarized and authenticated through New Zealand diplomatic missions or approved international legal channels.

Remote buyers must still meet all eligibility requirements and obtain any necessary Overseas Investment Office consent before purchase. The consent process can be completed entirely remotely through online applications and document submissions.

If you're purchasing under OIO consent as your main residence, you'll need to fulfill physical residency requirements after purchase, typically requiring you to live in the property for a specified period within the first few years of ownership.

How do real estate agents operate in Christchurch, and can they generally be trusted?

Real estate agents in Christchurch operate under strict regulation by the Real Estate Authority (REA) and must hold valid licenses with ongoing professional development requirements.

Agents are bound by a comprehensive code of conduct that requires them to act in their clients' best interests, provide accurate property information, and maintain professional standards. All licensed agents must carry professional indemnity insurance and contribute to a compensation fund for clients.

Most Christchurch real estate agents are trustworthy and professional, but buyers should verify agent credentials through the REA website before engaging their services. Agents assist with property searches, market analysis, and negotiation strategies across various sale methods including auctions, tenders, and direct negotiations.

While agents provide valuable market knowledge and transaction support, they cannot substitute for independent legal advice. Always engage a qualified conveyancing lawyer to review contracts and conduct due diligence, regardless of your agent's recommendations.

Agent commissions typically range from 2-4% of the sale price and are paid by the seller, not the buyer. This commission structure means agents are motivated to achieve the highest possible sale price.

Does the legal system protect foreign buyers, and how does the conveyancing process work?

New Zealand's legal system provides robust protection for property buyers through comprehensive consumer protection laws, mandatory disclosure requirements, and regulated conveyancing processes.

The conveyancing process must be handled by a qualified property lawyer or conveyancing specialist who conducts title searches, reviews all legal documentation, and ensures proper transfer of ownership. Legal fees typically range from NZ$1,000 to NZ$2,500 for standard residential purchases.

Your conveyancing lawyer will conduct comprehensive due diligence including title verification, encumbrance searches, council file reviews, and building consent verification. They'll also handle deposit payments, coordinate settlement, and register the title transfer with Land Information New Zealand.

Foreign buyers receive the same legal protections as New Zealand citizens once they're legally eligible to purchase. The Residential Tenancies Act, Fair Trading Act, and Consumer Guarantees Act all provide additional protection for property-related transactions.

Christchurch's unique earthquake-related considerations mean conveyancing lawyers pay particular attention to building reports, insurance claims history, and earthquake strengthening requirements when reviewing properties.

What are the classic mistakes foreigners make when trying to buy a home in Christchurch?

1. **Assuming eligibility without verification** - Many foreign buyers begin property searches without confirming their legal right to purchase, wasting time and potentially losing deposits on properties they cannot legally buy.2. **Skipping earthquake-specific inspections** - Christchurch's earthquake history makes building integrity assessments crucial, yet many foreign buyers rely solely on standard building reports that may miss earthquake-related damage or strengthening requirements.3. **Underestimating the OIO consent timeline** - Foreign buyers often underestimate the 10-30 day consent process, leading to rushed applications or missed settlement deadlines that can void purchase agreements.4. **Believing property ownership leads to residency** - Many foreign buyers incorrectly assume purchasing property will help them obtain New Zealand residency, when property ownership provides no immigration pathway.5. **Inadequate legal representation** - Using general lawyers instead of specialized conveyancing lawyers familiar with foreign buyer requirements and Christchurch's unique property challenges often leads to missed due diligence and legal complications.

What taxes, fees, and extra costs should I expect, and can you give me a full breakdown?

Cost Category	Amount (NZ$)	Description
Conveyancing/Legal Fees	1,000 - 2,500	Lawyer fees for due diligence and settlement
OIO Application Fee	2,040	Government consent fee (if required)
LIM Report	200 - 400	Council property information report
Building Inspection	400 - 800	Professional building condition assessment
Title Search & Registration	200 - 500	Legal title verification and transfer costs
Property Insurance	900 - 2,000/year	Mandatory building and contents insurance
Council Rates	2,000 - 4,000/year	Annual property taxes to Christchurch City Council
Bank Valuation (if financing)	300 - 800	Independent property valuation for lenders

Can I pay for a house in cash, and are there any restrictions or benefits to doing so?

Cash purchases are permitted and common in Christchurch, but all transactions over NZ$10,000 must comply with New Zealand's Anti-Money Laundering Act requirements.

You'll need to provide detailed documentation proving the legitimate source of your funds, including bank statements, income records, or asset sale documentation. This verification process can take several days to complete and may delay settlement if not prepared in advance.

Cash buyers often enjoy significant negotiating advantages, particularly in competitive markets or auction situations where they can make unconditional offers. Sellers frequently prefer cash buyers because they eliminate financing-related settlement risks.

However, cash purchases still require the same due diligence processes, legal reviews, and OIO consent (if applicable) as financed purchases. The speed advantage comes primarily from eliminating loan approval timeframes, not from bypassing other legal requirements.

It's something we develop in our New Zealand property pack.

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.

Is it possible for foreigners to get a mortgage, and what are the typical rates and conditions?

Mortgage access for foreigners in Christchurch is extremely limited, with most major banks requiring New Zealand residency or citizenship before considering loan applications.

Non-resident foreign buyers who do qualify typically face minimum deposit requirements of 40-50% of the property value, compared to 10-20% for New Zealand residents. Interest rates for foreign buyers often carry premiums of 1-2% above standard rates, currently placing them around 8-9% as of September 2025.

Banks require comprehensive income verification including tax returns, employment letters, and bank statements covering 6-12 months. Foreign income must be converted to New Zealand dollars and verified through official exchange rates and international banking channels.

To improve mortgage approval chances, foreign buyers should establish New Zealand banking relationships before applying, provide substantial deposits, demonstrate stable long-term income, or partner with New Zealand residents or citizens who can co-sign the mortgage.

Most foreign buyers in Christchurch purchase properties with cash or arrange financing through their home country banks with New Zealand property as security, rather than obtaining local mortgages.

How long does the whole buying process usually take, from making an offer to moving in?

The standard Christchurch property purchase timeline ranges from 4-8 weeks from offer acceptance to settlement, depending on the complexity of due diligence requirements and financing arrangements.

Simple cash purchases with no OIO consent requirements can settle within 3-4 weeks, while complex purchases requiring government consent, extensive building inspections, or mortgage approval can extend to 10-12 weeks.

Auction purchases often have shorter settlement periods of 2-3 weeks, as due diligence should be completed before bidding. Tender and deadline sale methods typically allow 4-6 weeks for settlement, providing time for comprehensive property investigations.

Foreign buyers requiring OIO consent should add an additional 10-30 days to the timeline, as this approval must be obtained before settlement can proceed. Incomplete applications or requests for additional information can extend this timeframe significantly.

Earthquake-related building assessments in Christchurch can add 1-2 weeks to the due diligence process, particularly for older properties or those requiring structural engineering reports.

Does buying property give me any pathway toward residency or citizenship, and where do foreigners most often buy?

Property ownership in Christchurch provides no direct pathway to New Zealand residency or citizenship, as immigration criteria are completely separate from real estate investment.

New Zealand's investor visa categories require substantial business investments or entrepreneur activities beyond simple property ownership. The minimum investment thresholds for investor visas start at NZ$3 million for passive investments, with additional requirements for business involvement and job creation.

Foreign buyers in Christchurch typically concentrate in central city areas including the CBD, Fendalton, Riccarton, Merivale, and St Albans. These neighborhoods offer proximity to universities, hospitals, and rebuilt infrastructure following the earthquake reconstruction.

International buyers often prefer properties near the University of Canterbury in Riccarton and Ilam, areas with established rental markets for student accommodation. The Fendalton and Merivale suburbs attract buyers seeking premium residential areas with historical character and earthquake-resistant newer builds.

It's something we develop in our New Zealand property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Land Information New Zealand - Overseas Investment
2. MPA Magazine - Foreign Property Ownership
3. BambooRoutes - New Zealand Real Estate for Foreigners
4. Settled.govt.nz - Buying Property Guide
5. RedBrick - NZ Property Investment
6. WWL - Property Buying Guide
7. WiseUp NZ - Property Law
8. Christchurch City Council - Property Information
9. Mortgage Life - Overseas Property Buying
10. BachCare - Foreign Property Ownership