Wellington Northern Suburbs Property and Lifestyle Guide
The northern suburbs of Wellington have long been a popular choice for families, professionals, and investors alike. With their unique blend of suburban tranquillity and urban convenience, areas like Johnsonville, Newlands, Tawa, and Churton Park offer a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. This comprehensive guide explores the property market, lifestyle amenities, and community aspects that make Wellington’s northern suburbs an attractive option for homebuyers and renters.
Property Market Overview
The northern suburbs have experienced steady growth in recent years, making them an appealing option for both first-home buyers and investors. As of September 2024, the median house price in the northern suburbs stands at approximately $792,500, reflecting a 7.08% annual increase over the past decade. This growth rate positions the area as a solid investment opportunity within the Wellington region.
Housing Stock
The majority of residential properties in the northern suburbs were constructed between the 1960s and 1990s, giving the area a mix of mid-century and more modern character. The housing stock is predominantly comprised of:
- Standalone family homes
- Townhouses and units
- Some newer apartment developments, particularly in Johnsonville
This mix offers a range of options for different household types, from young families to retirees.
Rental Market
For those considering investment properties, the northern suburbs present an attractive proposition. The median weekly rent for a three-bedroom house in the area is around $690, which has seen a slight decrease of 0.7% over the past 12 months. This rental yield, combined with the suburbs’ capital growth potential, makes the northern suburbs an area worth considering for property investors.
Lifestyle and Amenities
The northern suburbs boast a range of amenities that contribute to their appeal as residential areas:
Education
The area is well-served by quality educational institutions, including:
- Amesbury School (primary)
- Churton Park School (primary)
- Newlands College (secondary)
- Onslow College (secondary)
These schools contribute to the family-friendly atmosphere and make the northern suburbs an attractive option for households with school-aged children.
Recreation and Green Spaces
The northern suburbs are surrounded by natural beauty, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities:
- Tawa Pool: A modern aquatic facility
- Willowbank Reserve: Perfect for picnics and family outings
- Spicer Forest: Ideal for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts
- Nearby Belmont Regional Park: Offers extensive walking and cycling trails
Community Facilities
The heart of the northern suburbs is their community centres, which serve as hubs for local activities and events. These facilities, along with local libraries and sports clubs, foster a strong sense of community among residents.
Transport Links
The northern suburbs benefit from good public transport connections to Wellington CBD and neighbouring areas:
- Regular bus services to the city centre
- Train services from Johnsonville and Tawa
- Easy access to State Highway 1 for commuters
Future Development and Growth
The northern suburbs have been identified as important growth areas in Wellington City Council’s Urban Development Strategy. Plans for the area include:
- Revitalisation of the Johnsonville shopping centre
- Improved pedestrian-friendly spaces in town centres
- Potential for mixed-use developments, including residential units above ground-floor retail
- Enhanced community facilities and public spaces
These initiatives aim to create more vibrant and attractive centres that better meet the needs of the local community.
Investment Potential
For property investors, the northern suburbs offer several advantages:
- Steady capital growth: The area has shown consistent price increases over the past decade.
- Diverse housing stock: Options range from family homes to potential development sites.
- Strong rental demand: Proximity to Wellington CBD and good schools attracts a stable tenant pool.
- Future development plans: Council initiatives may lead to increased property values and rental yields.
Recent Market Trends
According to recent data from CoreLogic NZ, the Wellington property market has shown resilience in the face of broader market challenges. In the year to September 2024, only 12 of 96 suburbs in the Wellington region saw median value declines of 1% or more. However, more recent data shows a shift, with 74 suburbs declining since June, 52 of which dropped by at least 1%.
This trend suggests that while the northern suburbs have historically been stable, they are not immune to broader market forces. Buyers and investors should keep a close eye on these trends when making property decisions.
Government Investment in Infrastructure
The government has recently announced a significant investment in Wellington’s transport infrastructure, which is likely to benefit the northern suburbs. A record $3.3 billion is set to be invested in Greater Wellington’s transport network over the next three years, focusing on reducing congestion and improving public transport.
Key projects that may impact the northern suburbs include:
- Progressing the Petone to Grenada Link Road
- Improvements to SH1 from the CBD to the airport
- New passenger trains and line upgrades to improve commuter services
These investments are likely to enhance connectivity and potentially boost property values in the northern suburbs over the coming years.
Wellington’s northern suburbs present a compelling option for those seeking a balance between suburban living and urban convenience. With their strong community spirit, excellent amenities, and promising property market, these areas are poised to continue their growth as some of Wellington’s most desirable suburbs.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a growing family, or an investor looking to expand your portfolio, the northern suburbs offer a range of opportunities. As Wellington continues to evolve, these hillside communities are well-positioned to benefit from future developments while maintaining their unique character and charm.