The commercial property market across the upper North Island continues to present exciting prospects for investors, developers and owner-occupiers. As such, 2025 looks set to be a favourable year for strategic investing, according to John Urlich, Commercial Manager of Barfoot & Thompson.

Writing in the foreword of the agency’s newly released ‘First 25’ portfolio, Urlich reflects on the cyclical nature of the property market and the opportunities it creates.

“This marks the 11th consecutive year that Barfoot & Thompson Commercial has launched its ‘First of the Year’ series.

"With further reductions in lending rates anticipated and the market poised to conclude its correction phase, we are confident that the opportunities presented by our agents will help you achieve your investment and occupation goals,” he notes.

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The ‘First 25’ portfolio showcases a carefully curated selection of prime commercial listings across Auckland and beyond, offering a diverse range of options from high-profile urban assets to development-ready sites.

“A highlight has to be 10 Beatrice Tinsley Crescent, in the heart of Rosedale’s North Harbour Industrial Estate,” says Barfoot & Thompson broker Gary Seekup.

Along with colleague Bruce Jiao, he is marketing the property for sale by deadline private treaty, closing at 4:00pm, Wednesday 19 February 2025 (unless sold prior).

Built in 1998 by the current vendor to accommodate their engineering business, this exceptional freehold asset spans 1,935 sqm and features a 728 sqm office warehouse with an 800 sqm rear yard.

"It’s a prime road-front property designed with real purpose," says Seekup. “The MPI-approved container drop-off facility and easy access for containers into the warehouse highlight the operational thought that went into its construction, while three-phase and single-phase power reticulation ensures versatility for a variety of industrial uses.”

Adding to its appeal, the vendor has prepared schematic plans for potential development, which Seekup describes as “a real opportunity to unlock value”.

These plans include options to extend the high-stud warehouse or establish a second tenancy, making it an attractive prospect for investors and owner-occupiers alike.

Currently tenanted, 10 Beatrice Tinsley Crescent provides a net return of $164,052 + GST per annum.

Its location is another key advantage, offering excellent connectivity to the Western Ring Route and State Highway 1. Albany is just 10 minutes away, Auckland’s CBD is 20 minutes south, and public transport options are easily accessible via the nearby Constellation Drive Park and Ride.

“Opportunities to secure a high-performing industrial asset in this tightly held precinct are few and far between,” concludes Seekup.

“With its strategic location, practical design and future development potential, this is a compelling option for anyone looking to capitalise on Auckland’s industrial growth.”

In central Auckland, 847 New North Road in Mount Albert presents another exciting investment opportunity in a prime position.

Marketed by Barfoot & Thompson commercial brokers Cam Paterson and Murray Tomlinson, this vacant freehold site spans 1,751 sqm and is for sale by deadline private treaty, closing at 2:00pm, Wednesday 19 February 2025 (unless sold prior).

Situated at the entrance to Mount Albert Village on the corner of New North Road and Asquith Avenue, the property benefits from high visibility and excellent connectivity.

New North Road serves as a key arterial route linking the Auckland CBD to Avondale and beyond, while Asquith Avenue provides direct access to the Western Motorway and surrounding suburbs such as Point Chevalier, Mount Eden and Onehunga.

Public transport is a strong feature, with two train stations and multiple bus services within walking distance.

Although the building consent for the site’s previously approved two-building, multi-level development has lapsed, the vendor is open to reinstating it for a purchaser.

This proposal includes 38 residential units, two commercial spaces and associated parking facilities.

“This is a rare opportunity to secure a prime development site in one of Auckland’s most accessible and desirable suburbs,” says Paterson.

“Its position, flexibility and demand for quality housing make it highly attractive for developers.”

Adding to its appeal, Mount Albert is poised for significant growth, underscored by the nearby Carrington Road development, which will deliver around 4,000 new homes.

Zoned Business - Town Centre, the site allows for a range of uses, offering flexibility for future projects.

In South Waikato, 30 Kennedy Drive in Putāruru offers a remarkable development opportunity in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions.

Marketed by Barfoot & Thompson commercial brokers John Stringer and Property Brokers Alan Copeman, this substantial 17.28-hectare freehold property is for sale by Tender, closing at 2:00pm, Wednesday 26 February 2025 (unless sold prior).

Situated on the southern edge of town and adjacent to the 18-hole golf course, the property benefits from a central location along State Highway 1, providing excellent accessibility to Hamilton, Tauranga and Rotorua.

The site currently holds resource consents for two distinct developments: a 76-lot residential subdivision and a 210-unit retirement village, with additional land available to expand the latter to 500 units.

The vendor, experienced in retirement village projects, has completed initial earthworks for Stage 1 of the proposed village and is open to discussing plans with interested parties.

Putāruru’s affordability, coupled with increasing demand for retirement living in the wider Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions, underscores its potential as a development hotspot.

“This is a well-connected property in a growing market,” says Stringer. “It offers flexibility for developers looking to capitalise on demand for residential or retirement housing.”

- Supplied by Barfoot & Thompson