Verve explores the world of real estate on Waiheke Island with Bayley’s Waiheke Branch Manager Mark Spitz, and Jacob Heatley-Adams, Licensed Real Estate Agent specialising in residential, lifestyle, and waterfront properties.
Mark, can you tell us a bit about Bayleys Waiheke and its unique position in the real estate market?
Bayleys Waiheke is part of the Auckland group of 18 offices spanning from Pukekohe in the south to Coatsville in the north. What sets us apart is our unified approach – one example with Waiheke being such a standout location, we have over 250 agents who refer buyers and sellers to us. As part of Bayleys Real Estate Limited, we have access to an unparalleled network of resources, expertise and tools, not just locally but nationally and internationally.
Waiheke itself offers a mix of residential, lifestyle, rural, and commercial properties. It’s a dynamic, eclectic market, and we pride ourselves on being able to cater to every aspect of it.
Jacob, you’re originally from the United Kingdom, how did you end up in Waiheke?
Our family came to New Zealand to tour in a camper van in 2019. It was supposed to be a nine-month adventure, but Covid changed everything. When the borders closed, we found ourselves staying on Waiheke during the lockdown, and we fell in love with the island. After a couple of years back in the UK, we made the decision as a family to relocate to Waiheke permanently. Having been in real estate for over 17 years, I was keen to continue the successful career that I had built, so once I qualified for my New Zealand real estate licence, Bayleys was a natural fit.
Their collaborative team dynamic and their expansive marketing reach – including partnerships with Australia’s McGrath Real Estate and Knight Frank International. Having worked alongside Knight Frank in the UK, I knew how powerful the partnership with Bayleys would be for me and our clients. It’s been a dream come true to work here and be part of this wonderful community.
Jacob, you’ve now become quite involved in the Waiheke community. How does that influence your approach to real estate?
Community is everything on Waiheke. From helping run the Sea Scouts sailing programme to supporting the surf lifesaving club, I’ve thrown myself into island life of which I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of. It’s a twoway street – when you give back, the community embraces you. That’s a big part of why I love my work here. I get to engage with locals and newcomers alike, helping them find homes or properties that fit into this vibrant lifestyle. Every property here has a story as do the people behind them, and being part of that journey is very fulfilling.
It’s a 35-minute ferry ride from our country’s biggest city but feels like a world away.
What’s special about Waiheke Island from a real estate perspective?
Mark: Waiheke is unparalleled. It’s a 35-minute ferry ride from our country’s biggest city but feels like a world away. The island’s natural beauty is stunning, with its vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque beaches. There’s also the vibrant community and the influx of visitors during the summer months when the population can close to triple. Selling real estate here means connecting people to a lifestyle – whether it’s a cosy bach, a luxurious waterfront home, or a working vineyard.
What qualities make Bayleys Waiheke a standout in the Waiheke real estate market?
Mark: It’s a combination of experience, resources, and our commitment to clients. Our team has over 150 years’ collective real estate experience, which is unmatched on the island. We also leverage Bayleys’ national and international network, giving our clients access to a far-reaching pool of potential buyers. Beyond that, we handle properties of all kinds – from charming original baches to multimillion-dollar estates – ensuring we’re there for clients at every stage of their property journey.
What’s special about Waiheke Island from a real estate perspective?
Mark: Waiheke is unparalleled. It’s a 35-minute ferry ride from our country’s biggest city but feels like a world away. The island’s natural beauty is stunning, with its vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque beaches. There’s also the vibrant community and the influx of visitors during the summer months when the population can close to triple. Selling real estate here means connecting people to a lifestyle – whether it’s a cosy bach, a luxurious waterfront home, or a working vineyard.
Can you give us a sense of the current market conditions on Waiheke?
Mark: The market is certainly active, but it’s a hardworking one. Transactions are taking a bit longer, but Bayleys’ decades of experience help us navigate these fluctuations. We’ve been around since 1973, weathering everything from financial crises to market booms. Our agents are well prepared and adaptable, which allows us to continue delivering great results for our clients.
Finally, what’s your message to anyone considering buying or selling on Waiheke?
Jacob: Whether you’re looking for your first Waiheke home, an investment property, or your dream vineyard, Bayleys is here to guide you. We’re deeply connected to the island and equipped with the resources and expertise to make your property journey smooth and rewarding. Waiheke isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle, and we’re passionate about helping people discover that.
Mark: I’d add that Bayleys is about relationships. We’re here for the long haul, supporting our clients throughout their property journeys. For us, it’s not just about the sale – it’s about making sure that we continue those longstanding bonds that are formed with our clients and that they enjoy every aspect of island life.
For more information about Bayleys Waiheke, visit their office at 145 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, or explore current listings at bayleys.co.nz/waiheke
Words by Milly Nolan
