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Auckland’s Moving Trends 2025

Our latest data provides fascinating insights into where Aucklanders are moving, what kinds of homes they’re choosing, and just how much they’re packing up for the journey.
By · Updated January 20, 2025
Auckland’s Moving Trends 2025

Auckland has always drawn people from across New Zealand and beyond, but even the most loyal Aucklanders sometimes feel the pull of a new start.

Our latest data provides fascinating insights into where Aucklanders are moving, what kinds of homes they’re choosing, and just how much they’re packing up for the journey. Here’s the inside scoop!

Staying close to home ... or not

Surprisingly, almost half (49.1%) of Auckland movers aren’t going far; they’re relocating within Auckland itself.

This high percentage shows that, while they may crave more space, many Aucklanders value the city’s lifestyle, work opportunities, and proximity to friends and family.

For those ready to venture beyond Auckland, Wellington is the top choice, drawing 17.7% of movers. With its vibrant arts scene, waterfront, and relaxed pace, Wellington has a lot to offer. Christchurch is close behind, attracting 13.8%—a city known for its resilience and redevelopment. Hamilton and Dunedin round out the top five, with each city appealing to movers looking for smaller-city perks like affordability and a slower pace of life.

Home preferences: 3-bedroom houses rule

Moving from Moving to
3 bedroom house 3 bedroom house 19.5%
1 bedroom apartment 1 bedroom apartment 17.1%
2 bedroom apartment 2 bedroom apartment 11.2%
4+ bedroom house 4+ bedroom house 9.5%
3 bedroom house 4+ bedroom house 9.0%
2 bedroom house 3 bedroom house 7.6%
1 bedroom apartment 2 bedroom apartment 6.9%
2 bedroom house 2 bedroom house 6.8%
Flatshare Flatshare 6.7%
2 bedroom apartment 3 bedroom house 5.8%

Nearly 20% of all moves involve a 3-bedroom house—a popular choice for families, remote workers, and those who want extra room without overwhelming upkeep.

Big isn't always better, though. Apartments are also highly sought-after, with 17.1% of movers simply relocating from one one-bedroom apartment to another. These compact homes are ideal for singles and young professionals who prioritise convenience, location, and affordability.

The data also reflects a strong interest in upsizing, as 9.0% of movers are shifting from a 3-bedroom house to a 4+ bedroom home, often to accommodate growing families or work-from-home needs.

Flatshares are also a popular choice, making up 6.7% of moves. This setup is especially attractive to younger movers who enjoy community living and saving on rent.

Moving day: How much are they taking?

Moving from Inventory volume, m3
1 bedroom house 8m3
2 bedroom apartment 13m3
2 bedroom house 14.8m3
3 bedroom apartment 10.6m3
4+ bedroom apartment 12.4m3
4+ bedroom house 18.1m3
Flatshare 4.8m3
Studio 4.2m3

Packing up for a move is no small feat, especially when you’ve accumulated belongings. The volume of items varies widely by property size. Movers leaving a one-bedroom house typically need around 8 cubic metres of moving space—enough for essential furniture and personal items.

Those leaving a 4+ bedroom house have much more to pack, requiring about 18.1 cubic metres. With multiple rooms of furniture and storage items, these moves require extra planning and often, a larger moving team.

Apartments generally need between 10 and 13 cubic metres, depending on size. For instance, a 2-bedroom apartment requires about 13 cubic metres, while a 3-bedroom apartment needs around 10.6 cubic metres. These amounts can usually be managed within a day and with a smaller crew, making apartment moves somewhat easier to coordinate.

Studio and flatshare moves are the simplest, requiring only about 4-5 cubic metres. These smaller moves suit the minimalists and those who prefer flexibility, allowing for easy transitions without excessive possessions.

The Journey ahead for Auckland movers

Our data shows Aucklanders balancing adventure and familiarity. While half stay in the city they love, others head to new horizons like Wellington and Christchurch, choosing spaces that suit their lifestyles.

Every move tells a story, and at Wise Move, we’re thrilled to support these journeys. Whether staying local or exploring new places, each relocation marks an exciting new chapter, and we’re here to make it seamless.

What do our customers say?

Read reviews of Wise Move to learn stories from our customers.
$495
Toyota Hiace
Waikanae, Wellington
Auckland, New Lynn
10
Virginia
Reviewed 7 hours ago
THE ABSOLUTE BEST! Had to get my camper from Kapiti coast up to Auckland and having been ripped off left, right and centre I’d nearly lost my faith in humanity before these guys stepped in, sorted me right out, got my van up to Auckland quickly, safely and were just generally really great chaps. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
$450
Tauranga, Pyes Pa
Mount Maunganui, Matapihi
10
Yana
Reviewed 10 hours ago
Highly recommend! I was very last minute and in urgent need of home removal and they were able to do this for me. I am so appreciative and thankfuk!
$300
Auckland, Mount Albert
Auckland, Ellerslie
10
Anu
Reviewed 10 hours ago
The movers were extremely punctual and professional, and we couldn’t be happier with their service.
$425
Auckland, Hobsonville
Turangi, Waikato
10
Joel
Reviewed 11 hours ago
definitely use these guys!
$375
Auckland, Unsworth Heights
Auckland, Albany
10
Hui
Reviewed 11 hours ago
Great team! Very efficient and are great in stacking items in their truck and the storage unit. Highly recommend and will be using them again for my next moves.
$301
2 boxes of clothes stuff (2)
Christchurch, Upper Riccarton
Wellington, Karori
10
Shasha
Reviewed 14 hours ago
Had a great experience with Paul and the team! Communication was clear and prompt throughout the whole process, and they handled everything efficiently. My belongings arrived quickly and in perfect condition. Every step was well-organized, making the whole experience smooth and hassle-free. Definitely a reliable service, highly recommend!
$1,395
Hamilton, Pukete
Christchurch, Hornby
10
Brett
Reviewed 15 hours ago
Great Cheap Service. Thanks
$470
3 bedroom house move
Auckland, Mount Albert
Auckland, New Lynn
10
Lizzie
Reviewed 17 hours ago
I can’t rate this crew highly enough!! Organised, creative, careful, energetic, and they got the job done with a smile on their faces!! Thank you so so much - will definitely use Galilee again!

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