Houses for sale in Hāwera

Located in South Taranaki, Hāwera is the second largest township in Taranaki. Featuring the stunning snow-capped mountain as a backdrop, it is just one hour from New Plymouth, approximately one hour from Whanganui, and a mere 30-minute drive from the Egmont National Park.

With a population of 9,814, this area is in increasing demand. Whether it be an investment property, family home, section, or lifestyle property, Hāwera has it all.

Life in Hāwera

With scenic beaches, gardens, history, and bustling local industries, Hāwera is an attractive place to live. Before digging into the market numbers, let’s explore why this area has caught the attention of so many. 

The agricultural industry

Hāwera is in the heart of Taranaki’s dairy province, as shown by the giant cow icon that welcomes visitors arriving from the south. 

The social and economic prosperity of Hāwera is due largely to its natural and physical resources. Sectors supporting this thriving local economy include energy, engineering, sheep, beef and dairy farming, forestry, and horticulture.

The Whareroa dairy factory, owned by Fonterra — New Zealand's largest company, is located just outside of Hāwera. During peak season, the complex employs 1,000 people and processes up to 14 million litres of milk per day. 

Tourism and recreation

Another prominent industry in Hāwera is its tourism and culture, most notably the famed Tawhiti Museum. 

Well known for its hand-crafted figurines depicting realistic scenes of local heritage, Tawhiti is widely acclaimed as the best private museum in the country. With a range of life-sized and miniature models, the local heritage is powerfully brought to life for residents and tourists alike. 

Tawhiti Museum, Hāwera

The star of the show is the Traders & Whalers exhibition, which takes guests on a boat journey through a dramatic recreation of the Taranaki coast between 1820 and 1840. Created in partnership with the South Taranaki District Council, the boat drifts through a world illuminated by lanterns and candles and, through the use of sounds, smells, and displays, transports passengers to another time and place.

The historic water tower

Meaning 'the burnt place' in Te Reo, Hāwera takes its name from the old Māori village of Te Hāwera which was located approximately three kilometres southeast of the present town. With three devastating blazes within a 30-year window, the name became particularly significant.

To prevent further problems, insurance underwriters demanded the construction of a water tower in the centre of town. Completed in 1914, and standing 54 metres tall, the Water Tower is now one of Taranaki's best-known landmarks where visitors climb the 215 steps to enjoy panoramic views of the Taranaki countryside.

Puketarata Garden

If you enjoy nature walks and history, Puketarata Garden is an excellent destination for a day out. Set against the mountain views, the masterful blend of colourful, scented, native, and exotic plants is sure to impress.  

With the 400-year-old Puketarata Pa protected at its core, this country garden celebrates the natural and cultural beauty of the region.

Rookie Sister Cafe, Hāwera.

New developments in Hāwera

In 2019, the South Taranaki District Council completed a plan for a new town centre that is more welcoming and vibrant, enticing new residents, businesses, and visitors to the area. By strengthening local business and community engagement, these new developments on Nelson Street, Korimako Lane, and Campbell Lane have helped to transform the area. 

In 2022, work also began on the South Taranaki Business park, a $30 million business hub and residential subdivision. Seeking to develop the robust economy of the region, the project will promote business growth, increase employment opportunities, and provide 76 brand-new homes. This modern development is expected to generate an abundance of new investment in the district.

Hāwera property snapshot

Property in Hāwera has grown in popularity over the years. The current median price for house sales in Hāwera is currently $500,000, an increase of 20.5% from 2021.

• 246 houses were sold in the past twelve months. 
• Houses sell after an average of 24 days on the market. 
• 29% of occupants live in rental accommodation.
• The current median rent for houses is $450 per week.
• The median rental yield is 4.62%.

Please note: These figures have been taken from both Real Estate NZ and Real Estate Investar and were accurate as of 23 September 2022.

If you’re in the market for a new property, check out our current listings for sale in Hāwera.

View of Hāwera township from the water tower.

Surrounding townships of Hāwera

For those looking outside the main urban zone, there is an abundance of properties available in nearby areas. Whether it’s affordable housing, room to expand, or the rural appeal, you’re bound to find something that ticks all the boxes. 

Manaia property market

Manaia is just 10 minutes away from Hāwera and only 55 minutes from New Plymouth. The suburb is home to Yarrow’s bakery and is known as ‘The Bread Capital’. 

• The population is 1,000. 
• The median sale price for houses is $462,500, up 32.1% over the past twelve months.
• The median rent is $380 per week, up 5.6% in the past twelve months.

Please note: These figures have been taken from the South Taranaki District Council, Real Estate NZ and Real Estate Investar and were accurate as of 23 September 2022.

Patea property market

Patea, known for its rich history and beautiful beaches, is just a short 20-minute drive south of Hāwera. Also known for its vibrant culture, Patea is home to the local Māori club where the chart-topping single “Poi-E” was performed in 1982. Even decades after it swept to success, it remains one of the country’s favourite contemporary Māori songs. 

Patea Maori Club, Patea.

With its proximity to both New Plymouth and Whanganui, Patea has grown in popularity in recent years. 

• The population is 1,477.
• The median sale price for houses is $330,000, up 55.7% over the past twelve months. 
• 34.35% of occupants live in rental accommodation. 
• The median rent in Patea is $370 per week, up 15.6% in the past twelve months. 

Please note: These figures have been taken from both Real Estate NZ and Real Estate Investar and were accurate as of 23 September 2022.

Buying and selling a home in Hāwera

Before buying or selling a home in this dynamic market, it is recommended that you enlist professional support. At McDonald Real Estate, we’ve had over a century of experience in the local market and can ensure you get the best possible deal.  

To get started, check out our full range of homes currently on the market in Hāwera or speak to our team today. Our trusted agents are available to guide you through your options, so why not book a free, no-obligation property appraisal?