Are you thinking of buying property in New Zealand and would like to know if there are any regulatory constraints on overseas
purchases? New Zealand’s foreign investment regime is of a facilitative nature and requires consent in only a few cases. New
Zealand welcomes and encourages overseas investment from all countries.
What is the OIO?
The New Zealand Government's foreign investment policies are administered by the Overseas Investment Office (OIO). The core
work of the Commission is to assess applications for consent from foreigners who intend making substantial investments in
New Zealand.
When is consent required?
Area: Where the land exceeds 5ha in area
Foreshore: Where the land includes foreshore/seabed (irrespective of area) or exceeds 0.2ha and adjoins foreshore/seabed.
Lakes: Where the land exceeds 0.4ha in area and adjoins the bed of a lake.
Reserves: Where the land exceeds 0.4ha and includes or adjoins a reserve, park or conservation land.
Islands: Any land on most off-shore islands
Historic Places: Where the land exceeds 0.4ha and includes or adjoins most historic or heritage areas.

For more information visit the Overseas Investment Office |