Increases in property values continue to drive the net wealth of New Zealanders higher, but the level of debt is also rising creating somewhat of a "fools paradise."

**DO not use - done through Dreamweaver*** (Feb 08)

Auckland

Interest in New Zealand real estate is expected to boom amongst Australian and offshore real estate investors as realestate.com.au, Australia’s largest real estate website, launches New Zealand properties for sale on its site.

The Auckland City Council is continuing its attack on sub-standard apartments with the introduction of new design controls that spell the end for “shoe-box” sized dwellings.

Jacques Martin has taken on the administration business of ASB Group Investments (ASBGI), doubling the business processing specialist’s funds under administration to $10 billion.

The domestic economy (and sharemarket) appear to be at a cross roads, and the recent budget has significant implications for future savings levels and for the investment industry in this country. Tyndall Investment Management New Zealand Ltd managing director Anthony Quirk comments on the state of the markets.

ANZ says that if there is a savings problem the only way to address the issue will be through lower income taxes, greater reliance on consumption taxes (such as gst) and further signalling the necessity for self provision.

Tauranga

Apartments are getting some bad press at the moment, but is it a good time to buy?

The Auckland City Council is taking a hard line on cheap and ugly apartments.

The leading insurer in the Auckland body corporate and apartment market, Oceanic Insurance, is alarmed at the increasing number of claims for water and sewerage overflows, particularly in the lower-priced, high-density apartment market.

Auckland

Wellington