House prices on the rise on the North Shore

And the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) says the North Shore is becoming a more attractive place to live.

Figures released by the institute show the average house price on the North Shore rose from $400,000 in November to $410,000 in December.

Auckland City prices were down $2500 to $412,500, which in turn brought the region's median sales price down to $350,000.

The national property average for December was more buoyant with a record figure of $260,000, according to REINZ president Howard Morley.

"Contrary to many commentators' predictions, the market continues to show strength with an increase in the national median sales price of 13.53 per cent over the 12 months from $229,000 in December 2003 to $260,000 in December 2004,"

North Shore's price increase was helped by the wide range of housing that is now available in the area, Mr Morley says.

From those seeking luxury clifftop properties to those looking for their first home, there is something for everyone in the area, he says.

"People looking to live on the Shore can satisfy themselves at all levels of consumer interest," he says.

The high number of jobs that are available on the North Shore are also making the area an attractive area to move to, he says.

Mr Morley says the housing market on the North Shore is strong at the moment and he believes it will hold steady for the forseeable future.

There seemed to be more buyers than sellers at the moment, which was a factor that would help continue the strong market trends, he says.

Read More - Opens in a new window