Lowe & Co Realty

Is New Zealand Becoming A Tax Haven?

Could New Zealand actually be turning into a tax haven, at least in the eyes of Australian property investors? In this episode of The Lowe Down, Craig Lowe and Adam Cockburn unpack the growing conversation around New Zealand’s tax settings after Australia announced major new property investor tax changes. From capital gains tax and stamp duty through to negative gearing and investor incentives, they break down the key differences between the two countries and why some Australians are suddenly seeing New Zealand property as attractive value. The discussion also dives into whether property investors are really treated more favourably than other investors, whether capital gains taxes actually reduce house price growth, and why some tax policies can unintentionally reduce housing supply and market turnover. Craig & Adam debate the fairness of different investment taxes, the political narratives around property investors, and whether New Zealand’s current system is genuinely “easier” or simply less distorted than overseas markets. A thought-provoking conversation for property investors, homeowners, and anyone curious about the economics and politics shaping housing markets across New Zealand and Australia. Chapter Titles: 0:00 – Introduction 1:07 – Is New Zealand Really a “Tax Haven”? Why this debate has suddenly exploded online. 2:22 – Why Australians Are Looking at NZ Property Exchange rates, affordability, and value opportunities. 4:02 – No Capital Gains Tax, No Stamp Duty How New Zealand’s tax system differs from Australia. 5:00 – How Stamp Duty Can Distort the Housing Market Why some owners avoid selling altogether. 7:11 – Would Capital Gains Tax Actually Change Property Prices? The debate over investor behaviour and housing affordability. 8:08 – Did Property Investors Used to Get Better Tax Advantages? Breaking down LAQCs, depreciation, and negative gearing. 12:22 – Are Property Investors Taxed More Harshly Than People Think? Comparing housing to shares and business ownership. 14:26 – Does Property Really Have an “Unfair” Advantage? The political narrative around housing investment. 18:01 – Should Australians Invest in New Zealand? Why Craig & Adam think NZ property looks attractive right now.