Winter 2026
As we step into the crisp stillness of winter, we're delighted to share what's been keeping us busy across Taupō — from a steady, selective market to community highlights and our latest listings.
So, sit back, relax and enjoy the read.
The market this winter
Winter naturally brings fewer new listings and that's the opportunity. With less competing for attention, well presented homes are still drawing strong enquiry and standout results. Presentation, pricing and positioning matter more than ever.
Interest rate relief is bringing buyers back but they're considered and selective. There's a healthy pool still searching — particularly family, lifestyle and move-up homes. The right property, well marketed, is being rewarded.
Kristy Mortensen ✨
We're delighted to welcome Kristy to the Bayleys team as a Personal Assistant. With a background in the building industry and a sharp eye for detail, Kristy keeps every campaign running seamlessly behind the scenes. Welcome to the Bayleys family, Kristy.
Taupō Market at a Glance
This Quarter
On Market
Share of Sales
What we’re seeing on the ground…
While the headlines continue to talk about uncertainty, we’re noticing more qualified buyers attending open homes and confidence steadily returning. Well presented homes that are priced correctly are attracting strong competition, while buyers remain selective on properties needing significant work.
Interest Rate UpdateMarket Update — July 2026
Following a series of Official Cash Rate reductions throughout 2025, the Reserve Bank has held the OCR at 2.25% in recent reviews, providing greater certainty for homeowners, buyers and investors.
While economists expect the OCR to remain steady in the short term, many are forecasting that interest rates may gradually increase later this year if inflationary pressures continue. Mortgage rates remain considerably lower than they were two years ago, helping to improve affordability and buyer confidence. However, some banks have already begun lifting longer-term fixed rates in anticipation of future OCR increases, encouraging many borrowers to secure shorter-term fixed loans while maintaining flexibility.
For the Taupō property market, these conditions continue to create a balanced environment. Buyers have more choice than we’ve seen in recent years, and well-presented, correctly priced homes are continuing to attract strong interest. While we’re unlikely to see rapid price growth in the immediate future, increased confidence, stable borrowing conditions and healthy enquiry levels are all positive signs for the remainder of 2026.
Whether you’re considering buying, selling or simply curious about your property’s current value, we’d be delighted to chat about what these changing market conditions could mean for you.
No.1 Salespeople, Bayleys Taupō / Turangi
Bayleys Taupo / Turangi
Sold 2025/26
Settled Deals
Westermans Celebrated
Community Engagement
Netball Sponsorship
Grant & Clare sponsoring the local netball players who make our courts buzz each season.
Fishing Competition
Grant and Clare were proud to sponsor one of the major prizes in the Tapuaeharuru Bay Classic fishing competition.
Charity Auctions
Grant volunteering to auctioneer at charity events for good causes and giving back where it counts.
Pillar to Pou
Bayleys Taupo were proud to have sponsored the "Closest to Average Lap" prize at Pillar to Pou 2026! Proud of our team for getting out there & completing the track!
Grant Bayley — Auctioneer
I have built a long-standing reputation as the auctioneer with Bayleys, operating in the Taupō market. With more than two decades of experience in the property industry, I specialise in residential, waterfront, and lifestyle property auctions, combining proven sales expertise with strong local market knowledge.
Over the course of my career, I have conducted a significant number of successful auctions and have consistently ranked among Bayleys' top performing agents. I am known for my professionalism, market insight, and ability to create competitive auction environments that deliver outstanding results for my clients.
Alongside my property auction work, I am also a passionate charity auctioneer in Taupō, regularly supporting community organisations, fundraising events, and local initiatives. I enjoy helping worthwhile causes raise valuable funds through engaging and energetic auction events.
Learn About the Auction ProcessGrant & Clare's Listings
Feature Property
358 Lake Terrace, Two Mile Bay
Executive lakeside style living with guest accommodation
- Elevated lakefront position above Two Mile Bay with panoramic views across Lake Taupo
- Located in one of Taupo's most sought-after waterfront neighbourhoods
- Private, secure setting accessed via a tree-lined driveway and electric gates
- North-facing aspect capturing all-day sun, stunning sunsets and township lights
- Conveniently located near Two Mile Bay boat ramp and Kokomea Shopping Centre
- Extensively rebuilt and transformed to a high standard in recent years
- Predominantly single-level executive-style floor plan
- Spacious open-plan living and dining areas flowing to expansive outdoor entertaining spaces
- Designer kitchen positioned as the heart of the home
- Outdoor swim spa perfectly positioned to enjoy the lake outlook
- Three generous bedrooms, each with their own private ensuite
- Flexible office or fourth bedroom plus separate guest powder room
- Self-contained guest accommodation with proven short-stay income potential
- Internal access triple garage with ample additional parking for a boat, motorhome and guests
Fresh to the Market
Fresh to Market
1 Glendas Way, Acacia Bay
Luxury living in an exclusive gated community
Positioned within an exclusive gated community on sought-after Highland Drive, this exceptional brick and tile residence offers luxury living with breathtaking views across Lake Taupō to the mountains of Tongariro National Park. Completed just four years ago, the impressive 415sqm (more or less) home sits on an elevated 2,000sqm (more or less) freehold site, combining privacy, security and timeless appeal.
Designed with versatility in mind, the thoughtfully configured floor plan offers the flexibility of two homes under one roof. The main residence features four generous bedrooms, including a luxurious master suite with walk-in wardrobe, tiled ensuite and private access to a single internal garage. Expansive open-plan living is centred around a designer kitchen with walk-in scullery, flowing effortlessly to a separate lounge and sun-soaked hardwood decks showcasing the spectacular lake and mountain outlook.
Upstairs, a fully self-contained guest retreat provides two spacious bedrooms, bathroom, living area, kitchen facilities and a covered deck — ideal for extended family, guests or independent living. An internal lift and elegant staircase ensure easy access between levels.
Extensive garaging, beautifully landscaped grounds and premium features including ducted heating and cooling, double glazing, a wood burner and irrigation complete this exceptional offering. A rare opportunity to secure a substantial, low-maintenance home in one of Taupō’s most prestigious locations.
Fresh to Market
26 Whakamoenga Point, Acacia Bay
An exclusive lakefront sanctuary at Whakamoenga Point
Set on the pristine shores of Lake Taupō within the prestigious gated community of Whakamoenga Point, this exceptional waterfront property offers a rare opportunity to secure one of New Zealand’s most coveted lakefront positions.
Surrounded by protected native bush and spectacular lake views, the 161sqm (more or less) residence has been thoughtfully designed as the first stage of a larger architectural vision, while providing a luxurious home in its own right. Spanning two levels, it features four bedrooms, including a stunning principal suite with ensuite, bath, and expansive views across the lake to unforgettable sunsets.
The open plan living area flows seamlessly through stacking double glazed doors to generous decks and entertaining spaces, while the designer kitchen with central island and servery window enhances effortless indoor-outdoor living. Spacious double garaging and a private gated entrance complete the offering.
Just metres from the home, the private boat ramp provides direct access to Lake Taupō, while residents of Whakamoenga Point enjoy an exceptional range of exclusive amenities, including tennis courts, a pavilion, helicopter landing pad, walking tracks, multiple boat ramps, residents’ boat parking, private roads and an on-site caretaker.
Offering immediate enjoyment with exciting future potential, this is an extraordinary opportunity to embrace an exclusive waterfront lifestyle in one of Lake Taupō’s most tightly held locations.
Active Listings
Winter Chicken Noodle Soup
Nothing quite like a hot bowl of soup to heal the body and calm the mind. Courtesy of Taupō local Vanya Insull (VJ Cooks) — easy, hearty and warming from the inside out.
Get the Recipe
Top Team is back!
Grant and Clare present "Top Team Taupo" for 2026 — a fundraiser event where teams from different real estate companies come together for a day of fun activities, all while raising money for a worthy cause. We'd love your help choosing where the funds go this year. Keep an eye on our social media pages for your chance to nominate a local organisation or cause you'd like to see benefit from the day.
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Wishing you a warm winter
As the cooler months arrive, we want to say a sincere thank you for your ongoing support, referrals and trust. Working with wonderful clients like you is what makes what we do so rewarding.
We hope winter brings you warmth, comfort and time with the people who matter most.
Grant, Clare and the team x