54a Upper Ure St, Oamaru, Waitaki, Otago
Queenstown, New Zealand
Guide Price
$277,820
479,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
3
BATHROOMS
1
Description
Step through the gate on Upper Ure Street and you’ll quickly realise this isn’t just another three-bedroom home in Oamaru. It’s the kind of property that offers options - 156m² of solid living, a supersized garage setup, and a layout that simply works. Whether you’re a hands-on home improver, need serious workshop space, or want a comfortable base close to town, this one has genuine substance. Inside, the dining room sits at the centre of daily life, generous in scale and naturally connecting the kitchen and living room. The kitchen is neat and functional with ample cabinetry, good prep space and a wide window that keeps you connected to the street. The living room provides a relaxed setting, warmed by a heat pump and filled with natural light. A dedicated sun-room branches off the dining area, ideal as a reading retreat, hobby corner or sheltered indoor-outdoor zone. Down the hallway, three well-proportioned bedrooms each include built-in wardrobes. The bathroom is practical and tidy with both a bath and separate shower, complemented by a separate WC and a proper laundry room - details that make everyday living easier. The neutral interior provides a steady canvas for gradual updates, should you wish to add your own aesthetic over time. Outside, the 455m² section has been arranged for easy upkeep, with paved areas and established planting creating a sense of privacy at the front. To the rear, the large garage is a standout, easily accommodating multiple vehicles, workshop space or serious storage, plus a separate utility room that adds flexibility for hobbies, or an office/study. Oamaru is a town known for heritage streetscapes, harbour walks, a creative community and a coastline that’s properly underrated. From here, you’re just minutes from shops, Fenwick School and the historic precinct. Get in touch with Heather Burgher or Kirsten Ewing to arrange a viewing.
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Queenstown
New Zealand's adventure capital set against dramatic Southern Alps scenery, popular with outdoorsy types who want skiing, hiking, and bungee jumping on their doorstep. It's a small town (about 50,000) that runs on tourism, meaning seasonal work is common and housing costs are inflated well beyond what the town's size would suggest. A stunning place to live if you can afford it and don't mind the isolation.
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
Heather Burgher - Arizto Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008)
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


