439 Thames Highway, Oamaru, Waitaki, Otago
Queenstown, New Zealand
Guide Price
$266,220
459,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
townhouse
BEDROOMS
2
BATHROOMS
1
Description
This well-presented townhouse, sits conveniently close to amenities, such as Supermarket, Doctors surgery, Chemist, bakery, hairdresser and optometrists. The property offers generous space, comfort, and practicality in a highly appealing low-maintenance package, ideal for downsizers, retirees, or those seeking an easy-care home. The home
features two good-sized bedrooms and a spacious open-plan living area that provides a comfortable environment for everyday living. The living space flows naturally through to a large north-facing conservatory, an inviting sun-filled area perfect for relaxing with a book, enjoying your morning coffee, or hosting friends and family throughout the year. The kitchen is notably generous in size, offering excellent bench space and storage. The bathroom is well appointed with a practical wet-floor shower, heated towel rail, and underfloor heating to ensure warmth and comfort during the cooler months. A separate toilet adds further convenience for daily living. Comfort is assured year-round with double glazing throughout the home, along with the added benefits of a heat pump and HRV system to maintain a warm, dry, and healthy environment. The home also
features good quality carpets and an abundance of storage options throughout, something that is always appreciated but not always easy to find. Adding to the practicality of the property is the internally accessed large garage, complete with an automatic door, along with a dedicated laundry area and additional storage space. Outside, the property continues to impress with easy-care
features including a raised garden bed, and a garden shed providing further storage for tools and outdoor equipment. Recent updates include a new roof on the conservatory and new spouting, giving added peace of mind for the new owner. If you are looking for a comfortable and well-maintained townhouse with plenty of space and practical features, this property is well worth your inspection.
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
Team Meek - 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


