16 Creswell Street, Opua, Far North, Northland
Whangārei, New Zealand
Guide Price
$1,475,000
2,500,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
3
BATHROOMS
2
Description
Nestled in a secluded bay in the Bay of Islands this beautifully renovated home blends character with modern comfort. With its prime north-east facing position on the water’s edge this property captures sweeping views across the waters of the Okiato channel to the islands beyond. At the rear the alfresco entertaining area with its open fireplace is surrounded by native bush offering privacy and birdsong. Life here revolves around the bay. Step off your deck for a morning swim, launch the kayak or paddle board, or cast a line from the rocks for dinner. Watch ferries glide past, yachts depart for distant horizons, and summer twilight races unfold in front of you, an ever-changing outlook that connects you to the rhythm of the tides, seasons and water. A private mooring ensures effortless access to your ocean backyard. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and three generous living areas, the home includes an open-plan kitchen and living space, a separate lounge with fireplace, and an additional living room for flexibility. A studio/boatshed wing provides space for water toys, a gym or creative retreat, while a private mooring for your boat sits directly in front. Immersed in nature and embraced by a warm, welcoming community, you are moments from Opua Marina, the yacht club, coastal walking tracks and village amenities. A home where family gathers with ease, cherished memories are made, and each day begins and ends with sea, sky and possibility. Contact me today for more information. Copy and paste the following to your browser to see a full fly-through video of the house: https://vimeo.com/1170121050
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
Irene Bremner - Mackys Real Estate Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Bayleys, Kerikeri
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


