How to Choose Your Perfect Townhouse in New Zealand

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I was asked last week during a viewing:

“Which townhouse is the best in the development?”

I hesitated for a moment then answered,

“Whichever unit you like the most.”

The truth is, there’s no such thing as the best townhouse.

That’s because what’s important to me in a home is different from what’s important to you.

So the right question isn’t:

“Which townhouse is the best?”

It’s:

“Which townhouse is the best for us?”

Here are five key factors to consider when choosing your perfect townhouse in NZ, whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizer, or investor.

1. Location

Most people start by looking for a central location. But “central” doesn’t always mean “best”.

For some, being closer to lifestyle amenities matters more:

• Access to mountain bike trails in Wainuiomata.
  
  
• Enrolment in a preferred school or daycare.
  
  
• Proximity to friends and family outside the CBD.
  
  

When comparing townhouse designs, always ask: What’s important to our lifestyle right now, and what will be important in five years?

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2. Corner vs Middle Unit

Many buyers assume corner units are always superior, but that’s not necessarily the case.

Corner units often mean:

• More natural light and sun.
  
  
• Larger outdoor areas.
  
  
• Extra floor area inside.
  
  

Middle units can offer:

• Lower maintenance.
  
  
• More efficient layouts (especially kitchen/dining).
  
  
• More affordable pricing.
  
  

Ultimately, the difference between a units often comes down to space and privacy. A corner townhouse may feel more like a house, while a middle unit may better suit buyers who value low-maintenance living.

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3. Sun

The orientation of your townhouse is a big deal

• Morning sun: Great for those working from home or stay-at-home parents who want bright mornings.
  
  
• Afternoon sun: Favoured by shift workers or those who are out early and home later.
  
  
• Corner designs: Occasionally get both morning and afternoon sun.
  
  

When comparing townhouse designs, ask to see the floorplans and sun path to ensure it matches your lifestyle.

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4. Parking

Parking is often overlooked until it becomes a problem.

Options typically include:

• Off-street: Exclusive carpark included with your townhouse purchase.
  
  
• On-street: Shared public parking, more common with lower-priced units.
  
  

At Faisandier, when we choose townhouse sites, access to public transport is always a priority. For some buyers, especially those commuting by bus or train, a car becomes optional.

Tip: If you only use a car on weekends, rideshare options like Uber can sometimes be more affordable than owning a car.

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5. Price

Price will always influence your decision, but it’s shaped by all the other factors above.

For example:

Townhouse A – $699k

• Location: Epuni, Lower Hutt
  
  
• Corner unit
  
  
• All-day sun
  
  
• Off-street parking
  
  

Townhouse B – $539k

• Location: Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt
  
  
• Middle unit
  
  
• Afternoon sun
  
  
• On-street parking
  
  

Both are excellent options, but the perfect townhouse is the one that balances your lifestyle priorities with your budget.

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Townhouse vs House in NZ: Which is Right for You?

A common question from buyers is: “Should I buy a townhouse or a house?”

Townhouses in NZ typically offer:

• Lower maintenance compared to standalone homes.
  
  
• Better affordability in urban centres.
  
  
• Modern designs optimised for compact living.
  
  

Houses in NZ generally provide:

• Larger land area.
  
  
• More privacy.
  
  
• Higher upfront cost and ongoing maintenance.
  
  

For many first-home buyers and investors, townhouses strike the balance between affordability and lifestyle, especially in areas like Wellington and Auckland where land is limited.

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Final Thoughts

There’s no one “best” townhouse. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, family needs, and budget.

When you’re ready to decide, focus on these five factors:

1. Location
   
   
2. Corner vs middle unit
   
   
3. Sun
   
   
4. Parking
   
   
5. Price
   
   

If you’re ready to explore what’s currently on the market, you can view our latest townhouses for sale here.