There are now two simplified investment categories for the Active Investor Plus Visa – Growth and Balanced. Growth requires NZD $5 million over three years, Balanced NZD $10 million over five years.
What’s key for property is that under the ‘Balanced Visa’, property investments now include new residential developments that increase housing stock. Also, investments must be “active” – major renovations, full commercial or industrial development, or projects that clearly add value.
For overseas buyers, this means more pathways to invest through property development. For Kiwi homeowners, it means a growing pool of buyers wanting move-in ready, high-quality renovations.
Building or renovating in New Zealand can feel like stepping into the unknown. Council consents, local codes, site conditions – it’s a lot to take on if you’re not here on the ground. That’s where we come in.
We’ve helped international buyers modernise inner-city townhouses, restore heritage villas, and design new coastal homes that balance Kiwi character with modern comfort. We know what works here – from the right materials for our climate, through to the design details that make a house feel like a home.
Most importantly, we make the process simple. Clear communication, realistic timeframes, and a builder you can trust to get it right.
If you’re a local owner, overseas demand creates opportunity. But to really stand out, your property has to tick the right boxes. In our experience, buyers coming from overseas are usually looking for homes that are:
• Move-in ready – no long to-do lists.
• Updated in the right places – kitchens and bathrooms carry weight.
• Low-maintenance – especially for those not living here year-round.
• Designed for lifestyle – indoor-outdoor flow, natural light, and smart use of space.
We help homeowners work out where to invest before selling. Sometimes it’s a full extension or reconfiguration. Other times, it’s fresh finishes, a new bathroom, or upgrades that make a home more energy-efficient. The goal is simple – to lift value and make the property attractive to high-value buyers.
We’re builders who design with intent. That means no cookie-cutter houses or half-done renos. Every project is shaped around the people living in it – whether that’s you, or an overseas family about to make New Zealand home.
What sets us apart:
• Local know-how – from consent paperwork through to site-specific design.
• Design-led thinking – balancing looks with liveability.
• Proven networks – trades, suppliers, and consultants we trust.
• Honest communication – you’ll always know where things stand.
We finish well, and we don’t cut corners. That’s why our work keeps standing the test of time.
Now’s a good moment. Between the visa changes and growing overseas interest, property with quality renovations or smart builds is getting more attention. Whether you’re overseas and planning a new build in New Zealand, or a local getting ready to renovate and sell, NZ Builders can help you get it right. We’ll guide you through the process, keep it straightforward, and deliver a result that adds real value.
