16 Parnell Street, Rawene, Far North, Northland
Whangārei, New Zealand
Guide Price
$501,700
865,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
2
Description
Nestled in the historic heart of the Hokianga, Rawene is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most charming harbour towns, known for its artistic flair, strong community, and rich heritage. From the iconic Boatshed Café on the water’s edge to the local art gallery, golf club, and boutique shops, life here flows at a peaceful pace. In addition Rawene has the convenience of essential services including a playcentre, a primary school and a polytechnic campus, plus a ferry link across the harbour. Rawene is a place where everyone knows your name, a genuine community with a big heart. This beautifully finished four-bedroom home offers a rare opportunity to live right in the centre of town while enjoying complete privacy and incredible water views from nearly every room. North-facing and sun-filled all year round, it combines timeless character with modern comfort, including original art-deco light fittings, a contemporary kitchen and bathrooms, a sunroom, and both open-fire and ducted air-conditioning for year-round comfort. Generous living spaces flow to a private balcony where you can unwind and take in the sweeping views of the harbour, perfect for morning coffee or sunset evenings. Outside, the well-kept garden offers space to relax, garden, or entertain, with a carport and ample parking. The expansive section even offers subdivision potential, making this home a smart lifestyle investment. Moments from cafés, galleries, and the ferry, this home captures the very essence of Rawene — character, community, and coastal charm in one of the Far North’s most picturesque settings.
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
Suzy Carmody - Barfoot & Thompson Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - 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


