35 Thorburn Road, Matarau, Whangarei, Northland
Whangārei, New Zealand
Guide Price
$649,000
1,100,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
1
Description
Discover a rare slice of Northland paradise. Set on approximately 1.61 hectares of freehold land, this one-of-a-kind lifestyle property combines the tranquillity of rural living with the convenience of being just minutes from Whangarei. Step inside this 1910 classic and you'll immediately notice its fresh, bright appeal - the home has been recently painted throughout. The upgraded kitchen is modern and functional, ready for everything from casual breakfasts to gourmet entertaining. Four spacious bedrooms and a generous living area's offer comfort and versatility, while the thoughtful layout invites you to enjoy the space. Outside, the lifestyle truly comes alive. Large wrap-around decks provide both shade and shelter, perfect for morning coffee or sunset drinks, while established gardens create a lush, private backdrop. Hobby farmers and animal lovers will delight in the included chicken coop and resident flock, making this property as practical as it is picturesque. The wide-open land also offers room for recreation, pets, or simply soaking up the peace of country life. Ruatangata West offers the perfect balance; a peaceful, rural-residential enclave with easy access to Whangarei's schools, shops, and amenities. Properties of this scale and quality in such a captivating setting are rare - making this an opportunity truly hard to come by. With its fresh interiors, upgraded kitchen, versatile layout, stunning decks, and breathtaking surroundings, this property is ready for its next chapter. Don't miss your chance to make it your own - a place to live fully, breathe deeply, and create the lifestyle you've been dreaming of.
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
Beth Tweedie - Property Brokers Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Whangarei
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


