A 2026 reset brings a year of positive change. As we are all now looking forward to 2026, our hope is for broader growth and certainty for all our businesses and households. Collectively, many businesses, families and individuals are working hard, resetting plans, and committing to the year ahead. We all wish to see our economy grow, demand to flow back, and investment ideas to be executed. A broadening of economic growth helps us all. Encouragingly, property experts broadly agree that house prices are likely to rise by around 5%, supported by lower holding interest rates and a renewed confidence stimulating activity in the market, with more willing buyers and sellers accepting the market cycle. And with stable monetary policy settings forming, it feels like the right time for the private sector to move forward, plan confidently, and begin investing.

As of August 2025, the New Zealand Government introduced significant updates to the Resource Management Amendment Act (RMA). These changes may have a substantial impact on business operations and property investments, as they are designed to strengthen environmental accountability and reflect the country’s growing focus on sustainability and compliance. Read more about how the Resource Management Amendment Act 2025 could affect your business or property investments.

As 2025 draws to a close, many of you may be winding down and looking forward to spending more time with family and friends. Before we all fully embrace the holiday season, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the year, while looking ahead with optimism to the opportunities and possibilities the New Year will bring.