The North Island’s dairy property market is showing signs of steady strength and renewed optimism as the new season approaches, with several regions reporting positive buyer activity, competitive interest rates, and confidence buoyed by strong farm gate milk prices.
And while motivations vary, the consistent theme is one of opportunity in well-positioned, productive farms. We spoke to three PGG Wrightson rural and lifestyle agents who are seeing interest from both established farming families and newcomers looking to step into ownership.
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Bay of Plenty
Waikato
Northland
South Island Dairy Property Outlook
Pictured: Phil Goldsmith, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Consultant in Whakatane.
Bay of Plenty dairy market showing genuine buyer interest and optimism
The Bay of Plenty market is most definitely buoyed from experiencing steady, genuine interest from buyers, says Phil Goldsmith, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Consultant in Whakatane.
“There’s a constant flow of serious enquiries, especially for farms producing 100,000 plus kilograms of milk solids and milking 350 to 600 cows.”
“These properties attract buyers who can secure financing and see opportunities to add value through increased production and improvements.”
Predominantly driven by family entities focused on succession planning, Phil says many buyers’ are those families already involved in farming, looking to leverage their existing farms to expand or move into ownership. And smaller farms, producing 80,000 to 120,000 kilograms of milk solids, are often attractive to sharemilkers stepping up to farm ownership for the first time.
Pictured: A 79 hectare (STT) flat dairy farm for sale in Matata.
Phil describes the current climate as encouraging with competitive interest rates and strong payouts boosting confidence, but consistency in returns will be key to sustaining momentum.
Recent sales highlight this confidence, with properties selling quickly and often above expectations. For example, a 140-hectare farm in Waimana sold within six weeks during a tender campaign, and a 170-hectare property sold after being on the market for several years. Many sales involve multi-generational family farms transitioning ownership as younger generations decide their futures.
Farmers in the region are also adopting innovations like in-shed feed systems and off-stand pads to optimize production, particularly when milk payouts are strong.
“These investments support profitability while balancing environmental considerations,” says Phil.
For prospective buyers, the Bay of Plenty offers great weather, fertile soils, a supportive community, and a lifestyle few other regions can match.
“It’s a go-to destination to build a family business that’s both sustainable and saleable.”
View our current Bay of Plenty Dairy Property listings.
Pictured: Ben Warren, Rural and Lifestyle Sales in Waikato.
Waikato prepared for a strong season ahead
The Waikato rural property sector is poised for a strong spring and summer period, according to Ben Warren, Rural and Lifestyle Sales in Waikato.
“Following on from a positive previous season with a solid farm gate milk price and lowering interest rates - and with a similar forecast for the season ahead - we’re expecting good activity in the rural property sector,” says Ben.
As spring approaches and more dairy farms come on the market, he anticipates that favourable conditions will lead to stronger farm prices, which have remained static for some time.
“We’re also seeing a lot of on-farm investment in new cowsheds, machinery, and technology as farmers decide now is the time to reinvest in their businesses,” says Ben.
Buyer interest is coming from all directions - vendors looking to exit or trade up, purchasers entering or expanding, and strong demand for runoff acquisitions. Smaller farms in the Waikato are proving particularly appealing to first-time farm owners, making the region an attractive stepping stone into the industry.
Ben also expects the rural banking sector to be busy, as motivated purchasers prepare for the dairy farm trading season.
“The Waikato remains the traditional heart of high-quality dairy country,” he says. “It offers not only rewarding farming opportunities, but also a fantastic balance with off-farm recreation, family life, and the support of rural towns built around the dairy sector.
View our current Waikato Dairy Property listings.
Pictured: Megan Browning, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Consultant in Dargaville.
Steady dairy market with growing interest in Northland
The dairy property market in Northland has remained steady over the past few years, with prices holding firm and buyer demand consistent, according to Megan Browning, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Consultant in Dargaville.
“Interest has picked up early this season, supported by positive dairy payouts and increased confidence from banks regarding lending,” she explains.
While larger farms priced between $4 million and $7 million are available, there is a noticeable shortage of smaller listings ($2m - $3m), which has limited opportunities for first-time buyers and ex-pats looking to enter the market.
“We have beef farmers who are looking to diversify into dairy while still maintaining their beef operations,” Megan adds.
“Rising beef prices have made this strategy increasingly attractive, allowing farmers to balance stock and income streams.”
Pictured: A 184.55ha top dairy farm for sale in the heart of Kaipara.
Northland’s dairy farms benefit from a diverse range of soil types, particularly in the Kaipara and Ruawai flats areas. These flat lands not only support dairy but also attract horticulture, with crops like kumara and maize thriving. Dairy farm prices per hectare in the region vary widely, ranging from $15,000 to $40,000 depending on land contour and quality.
With stable market conditions, increasing buyer confidence, and diverse farming options, Northland remains an attractive region for those considering dairy property investment.
“Our land prices are some of the most affordable around, combined with a great climate and versatile land that supports dairy, beef, and horticulture. Add in the recreational lifestyle with nearby beaches and lakes, and it makes for a fantastic place to live and farm,” says Megan.
View our current Northland Dairy Property listings.
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Across these three key regions, favourable conditions and strong buyer interest are creating opportunities for those ready to make a move in the dairy property market. And in such an active and competitive market, local knowledge and clear market insight can make all the difference.
Rural PGG Wrightson Real Estate agents live and work in these communities and can help sellers and buyers navigate decisions with confidence. Whether it’s timing a sale, assessing a purchase, or simply understanding current trends, it’s essential to have a trusted expert alongside you at every step of the journey.
With local knowledge and national reach, our team is well-placed to guide you through the season ahead. Contact us today.
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