53 Ocean Breeze Drive, Waihi Beach, Western Bay Of Plenty, Bay of Plenty
Tauranga, New Zealand
Guide Price
$705,050
1,195,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
2
Description
This beautifully restored 1920s bungalow was relocated to the site ten years ago and has since been lovingly refurbished throughout, inside and out including new interior lining. Finished in classic weatherboard cladding, the home perfectly balances timeless character with modern comfort. Inside, nine-foot stud ceilings, rich macrocarpa timber floors and stunning stained-glass feature windows immediately set the tone, showcasing the home’s heritage charm. The heart of the house is the granite benchtop kitchen, thoughtfully designed in keeping with the era of the home. It
features a butler’s pantry and a large breakfast bar which flows seamlessly into the combined dining area, making it ideal for everyday living and entertaining alike. A semi-open living hub connects the kitchen, dining and living areas, creating a warm, social space while still allowing definition between zones. The home offers four good-sized bedrooms, including a master suite with his and her dressing room and a private fully tiled ensuite, along with a family bathroom including a claw foot bath and is finished with villa board panelled wainscoting walls. Year-round comfort is assured with ducted air conditioning, while practical additions such as pull-down attic storage with ladder enhance functionality. Outdoors, there are two inviting areas to enjoy — a lovely main outdoor entertaining space, plus a second area complete with a charming ‘She Shed’ perfect as a creative retreat or quiet escape.
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Tauranga
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
Rosina Donnelly - Barfoot & Thompson Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Waihi Beach
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


