553 Thames Highway, Oamaru, Waitaki, Otago
Queenstown, New Zealand
Guide Price
$295,220
509,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
3
BATHROOMS
1
Description
Built back in the day when you stood by your work for life - this solid and sturdy, 160m2, 1982 constructed home has stood the test of time. Today it presents in original but very comfortable order – shift straight in and enjoy a floor plan that is as functional today as it was way back then in the 80’s. Generous proportions and perfect orientation for the capture of all day sun, interconnection between the covered patio and roomy living areas, 3 big bedrooms plus a family friendly, stand-alone bathroom/shower room/toilet layout that will be appreciated by all. Large 50m2 detached double garage/workshop will always impress as will the street appeal of this modern looking home set on a 604m2 section close to high schools, sports
facilities and the town’s major employers – you will love living here. Perfect for the first home buyer or astute investor – this immaculate property with a GV of $530,000 will not be here for long! For Sale by Deadline closing 4pm, 14th April 2026 (unless sold prior). Buyer Enquiry Over $509,000
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
Lyndon McLay - The Good Guys (Empowered by The Network) 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