Talking Property Development with John Kenel

A Window Opens for Property Developers

In this mini podcast episode — just 5 minutes — I chat through what’s really going on in the market right now and why I reckon this could be the perfect time for property developers to get moving.
We’ll look at what’s shifting, what it means, and how smart developers can make the most of it. I’ll share a few strategies, a couple of things to watch out for, and hopefully give you a bit of clarity if you’re thinking about your next move. Whether you’ve done a few projects or you’re just starting to look into development, there’s something in here for you.

Tax the Rich! $2m = middle class. Stop the nonsense.

If you own a modest home, you're now in the firing line. This video exposes why the lefts “Tax the Rich” spin is setting Kiwis against each other while the ultra-wealthy keep buying up more assets.
 
For more Property, Economics and Political commentary Watch more of my videos on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnKenel
 
💡 Want to get ahead financially? Check out my free ‘Build It Up’ series on YouTube — a no-fluff financial literacy series for Kiwis who want to build real wealth over time. 👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/g4wvLtxV7wU?si=A0MiIfYMvczqjq82
 
 #johnkenel #assuredproperty #propertyinvestment #developmentstrategy #nzhousing #wealthcreation #nzinvestors #taxtherich #wealthtaxes

The New Zealand Property Market Just Blinked – Here’s What It Means

If you're feeling stuck, uncertain, or just plain frustrated with where the property market’s heading — this episode will shake you awake.
In this action-packed episode of The Property Development Club Podcast, John and Andrew dive deep into:
Whether house prices are actually affordable or it’s all smoke and mirrors
Why youth unemployment is sitting at a shocking 18% in Auckland
The rise of robots like "Flippy" and what it means for young workers
The return of investors and where they're quietly buying
John Key's call to slash rates by 100 basis points — and why John agrees
Council rates, rising power prices, and why inflation is out of your control
Bitcoin vs Property: Would you sell your family home for crypto?
Why NZ must attract global wealth instead of pushing it away
What’s holding back construction — and what could get it moving again
It’s blunt, insightful, and full of sharp takes you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a first-home buyer, investor, or just watching from the sidelines — this episode is your cheat sheet for what’s really going on.
Watch the full podcast video on my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@JohnKenel
👉 Ready to learn property development from someone who’s built over 1,000 homes? Visit www.thepropertydevelopmentclub.com for access to John's 17-step course and start today.
 
 

Why Wars & Oil Prices Decide What Your House is Worth

Global politics aren’t just headlines—they’re shaping the cost of living, the price of oil, and even what your house is worth.
In this episode, I connect the dots between wars in Europe, US debt and politics, and why oil could hit $150 a barrel.
You’ll learn how these global forces flow through to New Zealand—driving building costs, inflation, rents, and ultimately the value of your property.
I’ll also share thoughts on gold, shares, and where opportunities might lie in an uncertain world.
This is not financial advice—everyone’s situation is different, so please speak to a professional financial adviser before making any investment decisions.

The real story behind NZ’s property market in 2025 — and what developers need to know

NZ Property 2025: Rising Costs, Stalled Growth…
But the Smart Move is Starting Now while headlines focus on falling prices and oversupply, because the real shift is already underway.
In this video, John Kenel and Andrew Crosby expose the truth about NZ property development in 2025 — rising infrastructure costs, council dysfunction, rental pressure, and why this could be the most important buying window we’ve seen in years.
This isn’t hype — it’s pattern recognition. And those who get ahead now will be positioned for the next wave.
🏗️ What You’ll Learn:
• Why development costs are rising even as build prices ease
• The 64% spike in fibre + power connection fees — and what it signals
• Why rental stock is stacking up (and what to do if you're an investor)
• Tourism, migration, and why NZ is still “undervalued” globally
• OCR forecast impact — and why the recovery may be closer than you think
• Why now is the time to landbank, renovate, or negotiate distressed stock
• The coming risks of vilifying landlords & the future of build-to-rent
🔥 For Developers, Builders & Investors Who Actually Want to Get Ahead This isn’t for spectators. If you’re serious about building wealth in this market — now’s the time to move while everyone else is sitting still.
👉 Subscribe for real talk on:
• NZ housing cycle shifts
• OCR & rate forecast breakdowns
• On-the-ground developer insights
• Property investment strategy that works in 2025
🔔 Tap Subscribe and turn on notifications — no fluff, no sales pitch, just sharp strategy.
🛠️ NZ property is shifting under the surface. Are you watching… or waiting?
 
#johnkenel #assuredproperty #NZProperty2025 #RealEstateNZ #PropertyInvestmentNZ #CouncilCosts #BuildToRent #Landbanking #OCRForecast #HousingMarketNZ #PropertyStrategy #InvestSmartNZ #InfrastructureCrisis #MarketCycleNZ

Is Innovation a Luxury or a Necessity to Keep Developments Moving?

On this episode of The Building Pulse Podcast, host Tim Haycock  sits down with seasoned developer John Kenel to explore one of the biggest questions in the housing market today:Is innovation still possible—or even necessary—to keep developments moving in New Zealand?
With over 1,000 homes built and 20+ years navigating the trenches of property development, John shares what’s changed, what’s broken, and why navigating red tape has become a developer’s biggest risk.
In Part 1, they cover:
How New Zealand’s consenting process has evolved—and not always for the better
The disconnect between local councils and central government
The cultural shift in how Kiwis see landlords and developers
Why innovation might not be optional anymore
Whether you’re in development, investing, or just trying to make sense of the housing crisis—this episode brings the perspective of someone who’s seen the full cycle, and still believes New Zealand can build its way forward.
👉 Stay tuned for Part 2—where John dives deeper into solutions, strategies, and what it’ll take to fix the system.

The Volatility Game, Granny Flats, and a Council System Gone Rogue

This week I cover everything from Trump’s tariff chaos to the Reserve Bank’s drip-feed rate cuts—and why both are killing confidence.
I break down what’s really happening in the NZ housing market, with the latest stats from REINZ, and share my take on the government's granny flat policy. Sounds good on paper… but is it another regulation trap?
Plus, I give a behind-the-scenes update on my Moore Street project, explain why I’ve stopped developing in Hamilton, and preview my live appearance on Radio New Zealand tomorrow at 9am.
If you care about housing, development, or just want the straight talk—this episode’s for you.

The Truth About NZ Inflation, House Prices & Wealth in 2025

In this video, John Kenel breaks down the current state of the New Zealand property market and economy. With inflation still running hot and rents rising, he explains why staying invested in appreciating assets like real estate is more important than ever. Learn what’s changed since 2021, how affordability has quietly improved, and why “getting rich slowly” still works—if you know what to do.

3D Printing Houses in New Zealand and Housing Market Update

In this episode of The Property Development Club Podcast, hosts John Kenel and Andrew Crosby sit down with Johnny Gordon of Iconic Construction to explore the groundbreaking world of 3D printing in construction. Together, they dive into how this innovative approach is transforming the housing market in New Zealand and beyond.
From the efficiency and cost savings of 3D printed homes to the challenges of adapting to evolving market trends and regulatory environments, this episode sheds light on the future of sustainable and innovative building practices.
Key discussion points include:
The state of the current housing market and mortgage rates.
How 3D printing accelerates construction while reducing waste.
The role of unique designs and architectural collaboration in 3D printed concrete homes.
The importance of sustainability in modern construction practices.
Challenges in bringing 3D printing mainstream in New Zealand.
If you’re interested in property development, market insights, and cutting-edge construction technologies, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
3D printing, construction, housing market, property development, innovative building, Iconic Construction, Johnny Gordon, market trends, mortgage rates, sustainable building
 
If you'd like to learn how to become a property developer, or learn how to be a better, more profitable developer then check out my course https://thepropertydevelopmentclub.com/
Thanks for listening.
John Kenel

Inside the Build-to-Rent Boom! Simplicity's Shane Brealey on Reshaping New Zealand’s Rental Market

In this compelling episode of the Property Development Club, hosts John Kenel and Andrew Crosby sit down with Shane Brealey, Managing Director of Simplicity Living, one of New Zealand's leading Build-to-Rent developers. With decades of experience and a clear vision for the future, Shane brings a wealth of knowledge on New Zealand’s property challenges, the Build-to-Rent (BTR) movement, and the impact of government policies on development.
Shane shares insider insights on how Simplicity Living is reshaping the rental market with quality, long-term rental solutions and dives deep into the potential of BTR to address housing shortages. From market predictions to the urgent need for smarter building practices, this episode is packed with practical advice and bold reflections on the future of New Zealand housing.
Whether you're an investor, a developer, or just curious about property trends, this episode offers a unique perspective on how BTR could transform New Zealand's housing market. Join us and discover the opportunities and challenges facing today's property sector!