With its sun-drenched days, vineyards, and vibrant communities, Hawke’s Bay has long been loved for its lifestyle. But increasingly, it’s also being recognised for its value as an investment location. For those considering building new, it offers a rare combination of affordability, space, and future-proof infrastructure.
“We’re seeing more people realise the long-term value of building in Hawke’s Bay,” says Rob Liddle, owner of Havelock North Construction. “It’s a growing region with well-supported infrastructure, fantastic schools and an amazing climate.”
Unlike in many urban centres, sites in Hawke’s Bay tend to be generous. “The residential sites are generally bigger than city sections,” says Liddle. “You’ve got more options for outdoor areas and house styles.”
This openness is feeding into a strong appetite for architecturally designed homes—often single-level, with seamless indoor-outdoor flow and dual entertaining areas for both sun and privacy.
“There’s a shift toward architecturally designed homes with flair,” Liddle adds. “Cladding is often cedar or tulipwood for durability and style; Oamaru stone, limestone, and concrete blocks are also being used as unique features to break up the exterior, and the use of Crittal joinery is also becoming popular as well as Eurotray roofing for smarter, cleaner lines.”
Customised for modern life
Unlike existing homes—which often reflect someone else’s taste and outdated layouts—new builds in Hawke’s Bay are tailored from day one.
“Most of our homes are architecturally designed and customised to the client,” says Liddle.
That level of customisation includes bespoke kitchens, bathrooms, and modern features. “In particular, the kitchens are custom-made and feature all the latest styles and trends with any new gadgets,” he explains. “Under-bench and vanity led strip lighting is often used to highlight custom-made benches.”
Cost-effective and climate-ready
While building new may seem expensive at first glance, it often proves more cost-effective than renovating. “We have clients who have bought an existing house come to us to replace kitchens, bathrooms and make big structural changes to suit modern living,” Liddle notes. “This can often end up costing a lot more than anticipated”.
Plus, Hawke’s Bay’s reliable climate adds efficiencies to the process. “We don’t need to wrap or envelope a house while building, which speeds things up,” he says. “Access to sites is also easier, with plenty of parking and accessibility for deliveries and contractors.”
As a growing region, Hawke’s Bay is benefiting from proactive local councils and improving infrastructure. “The council here understands the growth and is supportive, and they try and make the process smoother for both builders and clients,” says Liddle.
Even post-cyclone, the region is responding with stricter but smart regulations around geotechnical requirements in low-lying areas—a sign of resilience rather than restriction.
What to know before you build in Hawke’s Bay
When planning a build, Liddle emphasises the importance of getting the basics right. “Don’t just go for the cheapest price,” he advises. “You need to make sure your costings are comparing apples with apples—especially with architecturally designed homes.”
And the most crucial element? Relationships. “The holy trinity is a good relationship between builder, architect and client. That’s the key to a smooth and happy experience.”
For those weighing up whether to build new in Hawke’s Bay, Liddle offers some advice: “Hawke’s Bay is a growing region with excellent airport links and a big commuting population, and it’s never been a better time to invest here.”
In a market that’s increasingly driven by lifestyle, liveability, and long-term gain, Hawke’s Bay is proving to be more than a regional gem—it’s a smart move for the future.
Explore stunning build projects in the Hawke’s Bay by Havelock North Construction.
