290 Paihia Road, Kawakawa, Far North, Northland
Whangārei, New Zealand
Guide Price
$568,400
980,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
2
Description
Vendor Says Present All Offers. Step through the charming white picket entrance and follow the tree-lined driveway to discover this exquisite 1890s Victorian Villa, nestled on 2.2 hectares (approx.) of picturesque land. Located between Kawakawa (3 km) and Opua (8 km), this stunning home is set well off the road, embracing the tranquil Tirohanga Stream. Listed as a Category 2 Historic Place, this beautifully preserved villa boasts polished Kauri floors, soaring ceilings, leadlight windows, classic sash windows, and a wraparound veranda with three sets of French doors - perfect for unwinding with a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. The home has been thoughtfully updated while maintaining its historic charm, featuring: Recent re-roof and re-wiring Modern kitchen with gas cooking and traditional-style range Three or four spacious bedrooms (master with brand new ensuite) Formal living room and additional office/4th bedroom Open-plan dining area leading to a private deck through french doors with an outdoor toilet Three heat pumps, two fireplaces and a wood burner with plenty of firewood for year-round comfort Recently repainted interior using high-quality eco paint The Creamery a rare little building used to store milk and cream in the early 1900's. The exterior is equally enchanting, with cottage gardens, shady seating areas, fruit trees, grand old oaks, and an old cowshed. A stop bank ensures security (no breach during Cyclone Gabrielle 2023), while grazing areas provide additional potential. Previously operated as a thriving cafe and event venue, this property has a rich history of hosting weddings, school galas, and community events. With direct access to the Tirohanga Stream, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking to Opua, or exploring the
nearby Twin Coast Cycle Trail. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history in fantastic condition. Contact Raewyn or AJ today for a private viewing!
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
Raewyn Paterson & AJ Smits - Te Awamutu Realty LTD (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Stone Real Estate
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


