15 Okiato Road, Russell, Far North, Northland
Whangārei, New Zealand
Guide Price
$696,000
1,200,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
6
BATHROOMS
3
Description
This substantial two-story residence offers exceptional versatility, generous proportions, and sweeping coastal vistas, ideal for extended family living, hosting guests, or creating a flexible home-and-income opportunity. The main living level
features three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms, centered around an open-plan kitchen and dining area designed to capture natural light and outlook. Expansive decking to both the front and rear creates seamless indoor–outdoor flow, offering ever-changing views across to Opua Wharf, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding while taking in the scenery. Downstairs, a fully self-contained three-bedroom, one-bathroom flat adds a valuable layer of flexibility, with potential to create a fourth bedroom if desired. Large patios and tranquil views over the Waikare Inlet place you front row to the daily rhythm of boats arriving and departing the popular Opua Marina, a captivating outlook for boating enthusiasts and coastal lifestyle seekers alike. The generously sized section benefits from second access to the main road, a carport, and practical off-street parking. Well positioned, the property is just an eight-minute drive to the historic township of Russell, with the car ferry
nearby providing easy access across to Opua and beyond. The home requires some finishing touches to achieve full Code of Compliance, with information available outlining the remaining works. Whether you’re seeking a spacious family home, a coastal holiday retreat with room for guests, or a smart investment with income potential, this property delivers scale, flexibility, and lifestyle appeal. For further information or to arrange a viewing, get in touch today.
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Whangārei
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
Ash Boyd - New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Northland
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