55 Howe Street, Howick, Manukau City, Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Guide Price
$926,300
1,570,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
2
Description
Harness the best of generous family living in this spacious, versatile and beautifully modernised solid brick and weatherboard home. In a sought after Howick position just a stroll from the village and its amenities, this residence offers a classic Kiwi upbringing for the kids and a relaxed way of life for the grown-ups. There is plenty of room for extended family, while investors will love that everything has been done, making this a very desirable move-in ready rental option in a popular location. Open plan living and dining is expansive and anchored by a large contemporary kitchen with plenty of storage and a breakfast bar for informal gatherings. Sliders open to a covered deck, creating a natural extension of the living area with pull down sides for all season entertaining and sheltered outdoor dining. A substantial second lounge ensures easy separation and makes the perfect space for fun movie nights. Four double bedrooms include the large master with ensuite, while a separate bathroom and additional WC keep mornings easy. There is also an excellent flexi space currently being utilised as a work from home office. Bring the in-laws or create additional income with a flatmate or two - the options here are numerous. The children will love kicking a ball on the large flat lawn and hosting teddy bear picnics under the established trees, and the double garaging will keep the hobbyist in the family happy, with plenty of off street parking with room for the boat! This is a superbly appointed family home in a great
location close to good schools, shopping and transport links - don't delay viewing.
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Auckland
Multicultural harbor city that feels like a softer version of California -- great food scene, easy nature access, and a strong work-life balance culture. Housing is expensive (NZ ranks 7th globally for home prices) and everything costs more due to import prices, but salaries come with generous time off and strong worker protections. The biggest adjustment is the distance -- getting home to visit family is a long, expensive flight.
Morning surf before work, weekends tramping through Lord-of-the-Rings landscapes, and a laid-back culture where shoes are optional and nature is never more than ten minutes away.
Visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa — points-based system requiring a skilled job offer in NZ. New pathways opening August 2026 for trades workers and those with 5+ years experience. Accredited Employer Work Visa is the faster route if you already have a job offer.
Learn more: The Complete Guide to Moving to New Zealand→Key Fact
NZ has strict biosecurity laws — importing food, plants, or outdoor gear can result in heavy fines. The work-life balance is exceptional, but the job market is small and remote from everywhere.
Learn more: What You Need to Know Before Moving Abroad→New Zealand at a glance
How New Zealand scores for American expats
Cost of buying in New Zealand
Estimated fees and ongoing costs for this property
Closing Costs
3-5% of purchase price
- ·No stamp duty
- ·Legal/conveyancing: NZ$1,500-3,000
- ·Building inspection: NZ$500-800
- ·LIM report: NZ$300-400
Annual Costs
Property Tax
0.3-1.5% of government valuation (varies by council)
Insurance
NZ$1,500-3,000/yr
HOA / Condo Fees
NZ$300-600/mo for apartments (body corporate)
Good to Know
Agent Fees
Seller pays (2.5-4%)
Foreign Buyer Note
Foreign buyers BANNED from existing homes (2018 ban). Can only buy new-build apartments in large developments.
Legal help in New Zealand
Hire your own attorney — not the seller's. We'll match you with a vetted local lawyer.
Need a local attorney in New Zealand?
We'll connect you with an independent, English-speaking real estate attorney experienced with foreign buyers. Not the seller's lawyer — yours.
Contact Agent
Dave McCartney - Five AM Realty Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Ray White, Howick
Next steps for moving to New Zealand
Interested in this property? Here's how to move forward.
Understand the buying rules
Foreign ownership laws vary wildly by country. Some welcome you, others restrict or ban foreign buyers entirely.
Sort out your visa
Owning property doesn't give you the right to live there. Research residency options before you buy.
Plan your finances
Understand currency risk, international wire transfers, and whether you can get a local mortgage.
Know your tax obligations
US citizens are taxed on worldwide income. You'll need to file US taxes from abroad and may owe local taxes too.
Set up healthcare
Medicare doesn't cover you overseas. You'll need international health insurance or a local plan.
Run the full checklist
Banking, mail forwarding, power of attorney, pet import rules — the complete pre-move checklist.
realestate.co.nz
NZD


