House Hunting in New Zealand's North Island | Wellington Region

We moved from the USA to New Zealand and have been House Hunting in NZ's North Island, from Hawkes Bay to the Wairarapa region of Wellington. Join us in this travel vlog and on this adventure as we visit open houses in the region and try to find the perfect place to call home. From Greytown NZ to Carterton, Masterton, and more of the Wairarapa.
I'm Alex, I'm a travel filmmaker, photographer, and TV host. On this channel, I'll share some travel guides, motivational and inspirational videos from lessons I've learned during my life and cooking recipes from international cuisine using vegetables grown in my home garden. Hopefully, my videos will help you learn new skills, find happiness, inspire exploration, and grow your creativity. Stay tuned friends!
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[@motaroufltd5007]

Being a real estate professional (mixed with a jurist), I've learned from both my clients and personal experience that the most common principles of house hunting are : * never rush, never trust, never assume. * location goes WAY above the improvements the house may need (the latter, you can always change or fix if need be). * when it comes to improvements, it goes in this order of priorities : a) structural components (basement, walls, roof) ; b) wastewater evacuation and clean water supply (you can't fake your way out of these - especially waste water, as gravity rules the game) c) electricity and temperature management (be it isolation, heating or cooling) d) all the rest (including the all mighty television and internet) can be sorted out. Don't forget to double check if anything works properly, as in most juridical systems, you're suppose to have set the amount of your offer with due consideration of the relative state of all components. Example : if there is no heating during the visit, ask for the heating system to be started (even in the middle of summer - if you want my money, you play by the rules). And please : * do not forget to get proper advice from a local professionnal that YOU chose, so (a) you don't get screwed by the seller or real estate agent, and (b) you are aware beforehand of the hidden costs (like property taxes, etc). * there is no shortage of houses : we humans build them for centuries. Walk away if you feel like it. You don't owe anything to the real estate agent or the seller, as long as you haven't engaged an offer. If they wasted their time, it's an unfortunate part of a game they chose to play. * be nice with anyone you encounter, but always follow your own interest. Best of luck ;)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you for this great advice 🙏🏼

[@motaroufltd5007]

@@AlexanderAyling My pleasure. Paying back for all those years I’ve been following you vagabrothers and alike. Keep going 👍

[@auckland143]

i have screen shorted this comment 👍🏽

[@paulrayner1274]

The NZ housing market is a national tragedy, where sadly most young New Zealanders can only dream of owning a home. Successive governments have turned it into a global investment market, where the predominately low-wage New Zealanders are completely priced out of the market.

[@tooxtalivai0690]

Not just low wage now even some of us in the middle income bracket are priced out heck I’ve seen homes in Cannons Creek Porirua around the 900k mark and that’s one of the countries so called ghettos

[@Vstar87]

No way maybe Whitby you would expect that price but cannons creek cmon now 🤦‍♀️

[@tooxtalivai0690]

@@Vstar87 a difference a motorway makes, stick an off ramp in waitangirua and we’re off to the races with housing prices add low supply of homes and $$$ value goes through the roof

[@robyndavies2762]

my son brought his first home in Nelson ...he works in retail and my daughter in law works in the council ...its possible. they were getting despondent but finally found a house before anyone even saw it...so yea its possible with hard work

[@jamessuhr9667]

I enjoy your vidios, well done. Your vidio on the different experents.ins.in USA and NZ was brilliant

[@tegztegz]

My fave thing about watching you guys is that you make me look at my country through fresh eyes, and it reminds me to stay mindful and appreciate the little things

[@AlexanderAyling]

I love that. It's so easy to overlook the little things every day isn't it?

[@mattboulton5430]

Welcome to the neighbourhood! The Wairarapa is one of NZ's best kept secrets - even more beautiful in summer. Enjoy your time here. (Make sure you hit up Clareville Bakery!)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Matt! Already been to Clareville Bakery a few times. So nice!

[@christineeliseev]

100% - I'm also from the US and we bought a place in the Wairarapa (in Carterton). It's close enough to Welly that I can commute in when needed, and the region itself is AMAZING.

[@cateplink1633]

Thanks for showing me that my home country is still the way I remember even after 50 years. I am now so homesick it is amazing.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Where is home now Cate?

[@cateplink1633]

@@AlexanderAyling Central Coast NSW Australia. Went for a holiday and met and married an Australian.

[@MiriamWaldbaum]

There's nothing like a scent of the grass after the rain! When I was a kid I would be outside when there was a heavy summer rain that last 30 minutes and than the sun come out again, really beautiful. A lot less polution in the 60's. NZ is gorgeous and for one living almost in a desert, seeing so much green and nature is a luxury to enjoy!

[@AlexanderAyling]

The greenery here never ceases to amaze. Thank you for watching

[@MiriamWaldbaum]

@@AlexanderAyling I watch you and your brother for years, I just not a great commentator😊but I never miss a video.

[@MissTrina125]

Welcome to the Wairarapa, I have lived here most of my life and it's such an amazing area. People here are very helpful, it's the type of place where if you mention you need help with something, someone will know the right person for the job or just come and help themselves. There are many hidden gem locations for amazing walks/hikes and the community loves to support their own. I hope you are both enjoying exploring.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Trina! We appreciate the kind comment!

[@Tom_McMurtry]

Your videos always bring an element of peace with them. A sense that is is there for you to sit with. And that's a nice feeling.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Tom. I really appreciate that. 🙏🏼✌🏼❤️

[@queens6583]

That area looks breathtakingly beautiful. I love horses so the thought of looking out my window and seeing them would be heaven. I think I would have to buy a couple and become an equestrian. At least that is how my husband would bride me to move there. You have a great attitude and good things will come to you I'm sure. The shot of the red flower with frost on it's petals was gorgeous!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! I hope one day we can have a horse or two. 🙏🏼

[@10barnaby1]

Love sitting down with a cuppa on a Saturday morning and seeing if you guys have posted. Thanks for taking us along on your journey. You both have such a good vibe it brings a smile and makes the day go better. :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Aww reading this brings us both so much joy. Thank you for the kind comment and for joining us on your weekend morning.

[@msgriz56]

I haven't even watched the whole video yet but just wanted to say that I got a huge chill down my back as well as goosebumps when you mentioned that the Airbnb owners said their parents grew up in the house you wanted to buy. 😲❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Isn’t that crazy?!

[@krysaliyah]

I just love how you both seem to have embraced this country. I feel your Kiwi wairua (spirit) and the love you guys have for each other. Your wife has sacrificed so much to move so far away from her whānau, yet she seems as excited and happy to be here as you are. You have also left the country you have grown up in and have also left your friends, so you too have sacrificed a lot. Hope you will soon turn one of those little bends or go over a rise and there before you, no mistake about it, is the home you are being led to. We are as excited as you are for that day to come. Ngā mihi nui ki ā kōrua. (Best wishes to you both.)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you so much for the meaningful comment. Really appreciate the good vibes!

[@denisehobman7853]

I grew up in Upper Hutt , so I know the Wairarapa well. I ,like a lot of Kiwis, made the leap across the pond to Aussie and have lived in southern Tasmania on 16 acres with a herd of alpacas, for the last 20 years. Every time I go home,I am drawn to the wairarapa, to the amazing villages and landscapes. I will end up back there one day. Good luck with your hunt, it will happen. Enjoy the journey.

[@AlexanderAyling]

16 acres and Alpacas in Tasmania?! Sounds epic!

[@omalleysmith9100]

Being completely happy with not knowing what the future holds is the way to go. All you can do is prepare and plan, and accept it as it comes. I know you'll find your home whenever you're meant to. As for the rain? I not only love walking AFTER it, but I love walking IN it... Call me crazy. lol

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Michelle. I appreciate the kind words. And I feel the same. Plan prepare, accept. As with the rain, I LOVE going out into it. Makes me feel alive

[@lostamonglocals5382]

Totally agree! Being happy even during the unknown is big. Also we love walking rain or right after.

[@christineeliseev]

Soo cool. Also American here, and I live in Carterton. The little church you showed at 6:15, we call it the Shrek church (because of the donkey painted on the side looks like the one from Shrek). Ironically, the vicar there is also American. It's a hit or miss in this area. We bought a 1970s home that was SOLID. That was the most important thing for us. We have done major renos and have replaced most everything on the inside (including adding insulation). The second most important thing for us was the location for sun capture (which is great too), and overall layout. Good luck to you guys!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Christine!

[@gmoo84]

Oh man you sounded so kiwi when you said nah its just new zealand 😂

[@AlexanderAyling]

LOL

[@pixiepinkcrystalsrosetta7027]

I loooove the rain! ❤ The smell right before it arrives, and the clean renewed feeling after! 😌 There are so many variations here in Washington State, New Zealand seems similar. Sleep is always better when it rains 🌧😴.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Isn’t it the best?! Also sleeping with the sound of rain is magic

[@rttheo7327]

Great episode! I have some 'binge watching' ahead of me to get up to date.

[@aussiebird]

Kia Ora Guys, you’re making me homesick for the motherland , so great following your road trips, imaging the fresh air, smell of sheep & cattle…..and let’s not forget the food - miss my NZ grub, aloha from Sydney hoping to get over in August if that trans Tasman bubble opens up 🤞

[@AlexanderAyling]

Cheers Vicki. Thanks for tuning in and hope all is well in Australia

[@juneterry8487]

Another great video Alex. I grew up in north Wairarapa so I can understand your thoughts and feelings about the countryside. It's a lovely area.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you June! It’s so lovely there

[@mollyisobel]

My fiancée is the winemaker at Ata Rangi in Martinborough. If you would like a tour (of the winery or the town) next time you are down, get in contact. We bought a house in Martinborough 6 months ago and we went to countless open homes! Sending positive vibes to you both ✨

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Molly! May have to take you up on a glass of wine :)

[@katymaloney]

I love house hunting videos, and house reno/competition shows! Not for voyeurism as much as creative inspo, and sociological insight, seeing how people made their space work for them, why they chose to live there, etc. Anyhow, I hope you both find the perfect home for you! ✌️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Katy! Hopefully we will have some reno videos coming soon!

[@lisaandrews7125]

I know it’s old school, but if you can, print hard copies of the listings that you plan to visit. Then after you view the house, take 5-10 minutes in the car to write down your impressions, pros/cons, whatever you would like to remember about the house on the paper for that listing. It is so much easier to review the houses afterwards, and there is something about taking the time to write by hand that makes you remember the fine details better, as opposed to making notes on your phone.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Great tip 👏🏼

[@chrishellize]

Have you considered further up the north island? We just bought a house in Matamata for a reasonable price in a spectacular street filled with mature trees and charming street lights and huge sections. Its an hours drive from Hamilton, Rotorua, Tauranga and the Mt, and not that much further to Taupo and even Auckland on the new Waikato Expressway. When searching for our house we came to the conclusion that small towns in central north island are an overlooked gem. Good luck to you, love your channel and values :D

[@chrishellize]

mmm...accidently liked my own comment, I didnt even know you could do that!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Matamata is a cute town. Can’t beat living in the Shire!

[@drayner2517]

We moved to the Wairarapa 2 1/2 years ago and it took us 6 months looking around the region to find the house that called to us. In the end, it was one that we had discounted from the advertising blurb and it was a last minute decision to “...let’s take a quick look...” As soon as we walked in, we knew this was the one! Good luck with your journey.

[@AlexanderAyling]

It’s funny how that works isn’t it?

[@damonmorris5874]

Sending you guys good vibes for a place to call home! Your guys approach to this journey is right where you need to be. Enjoy the ride👍🙏

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Damon!! It’s been a lesson in patience and acceptance that’s for sure. Cheers

[@BrendaAnderson]

Welcome to the Wairarapa. Been following your journey for months now, so it's cool to see you in my backyard. Been here almost 25 years now (from the US). Hope you find your perfect place. And yes, to show that it is "just New Zealand", my kids went to school with your air bnb host's kids. :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hahah no way! Small world. Thanks for tuning in and for the welcome 🙏🏼

[@whimsicalnothings]

It’s so special watching this knowing you found your home and Carrie truly was right that the universe guides you to where you should be. Also just the peak of the houses you viewed in this video the place you have ended up is just so much more beautiful and more like the home you both deserve.

[@nikkilogan7726]

You will find the right home one day. Dont rush, be patient, the universe will give it to you... Love you guys Alex & Carrie ✌️😎🇳🇿

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Nikki 🙏🏼

[@nikkilogan7726]

your welcome Alex ✌️😎

[@surabhinataliekullu1623]

New Zealand is such a beauty ♥️

[@AlexanderAyling]

It’s really is

[@karinwtfont]

I live in Virginia and this area of NZ really reminds me of the country out here. It really looks so similar. I live right outside of DC and work in Georgetown, so my home in Arlington looks a lot different, but I love that the beautiful country, mountains and wineries are less than an hour away! Thanks for sharing your journey with us, I truly hope you and Carrie find the perfect place for your home. Looking forward to following along on the journey!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Karin!! I’d love to get out East and do a big proper road trip from Maine to Florida one day. I’ve visited Virginia before and liked it. Thanks for watching sharing your story and sending good vibes.

[@greggiles7309]

Hawkes Bay has the most Sun, likely less Council Rates Bill.

[@michellecooper5753]

What a lovely couple…and family doggy.

[@michaelheliotis5279]

zomg I really hope you guys find somewhere you like in the Wairarapa or other Wellington outskirts. I feel like you both fit into the culture and vibe of Wellington so perfectly, so a place on the outskirts where you can be nearby but also indulge your love of nature and the outdoors would be amazing! And it's just a short ride on a plane or ferry to get anywhere else in the country, so it'd be a great base to explore the rest of NZ too! Best of luck! ❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Michael. Stay tuned. Big news this weekend :)

[@fromrighttoleft8328]

Small world! I spent 2 weeks in the Wairarapa in 2018, 1.5 weeks of which were in Carterton. That's truly when this American became convinced of just how cool New Zealand is.

[@AlexanderAyling]

🙌🏼 it’s a cool spot in a lovely country

[@SezShares]

There’s a saying we have; There’s six degrees of separation in the world. In New Zealand, it’s two.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Very very very true

[@MikeM-js5ne]

Wairarapa is stunning in summer and beautiful in winter. Gorgeous area especially for growing crops and daylight hours. Stunning rivers and amazing beaches half an hour away. Good luck. I live in Wellington so if you're over these ways and need a coffee let me know.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Mike! It’s a lovely place isn’t it?

[@saraha.maninger2161]

Ah, sweet rain; gift of life. Looks like Home in more than one way. . . 💕Love this video story. The path is the destination. So thrilled for you two.🌸

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sally! Sending love ❤️

[@mashalight8699]

really your choice, can only be justified by the call of the heart, usually young sociable couples settle near Tauranga, Raglan, Coromandel or big towns. My husband and I lived in Auckland but move closer to Raglan (Whatawhata) it’s great experience, from urban to alpine meadows😅

[@susanatagoai8145]

You are in a beautiful part of Aoteroa. Make sure you visit the Pinnacles, probably about a 40 minute (easy and gorgeous) drive from where you are right now. It's other worldly, especially when the weather is fine.

[@timothyrooney3457]

New Zealand is so beautiful!

[@AlexanderAyling]

It truly is. Thanks for tuning in Timothy

[@montsedl8894]

Guys, every day you are a step closer to finding your nest :) House hunting is a dreadful process, but enjoying and learning from the journey is the only way to go. My husband and I are also house hunting for our first home and the ups and downs are like a roller coaster, but simultaneously such a crucial lesson for life.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Couldn't agree more. It's like... strap in for the ride!

[@MyraHart1943]

I'm so happy you both have peace on this journey. It sounds like you are definelty in the right place for you right now. Yes, Carrie the signs!! Me too, always. ☮🌌

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!

[@Frank-rx8ch]

Yes. Sometimes when house searching one needs not to let emotions and feelings override conscience.

[@joannewinter7879]

Morning Alex and Carrie. Thanks for taking us along for the ride❤🙏👍

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks for coming along Joanne

[@HM-qt9wk]

How have I not heard about you guys before! It’s quite nice watching the journey of you guys moving to NZ from the USA, I have literally watched 9 clips in the last two hours lol thanks for sharing

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you for joining the journey. Stay tuned for this weekend’s video (big news)

[@whitebaitbigfoot]

I love the wairarapa! I lived in Wellington for 10 years and driving over the hill to the Wairarapa was my fav. Great food, great wine and great fly fishing (Alex you’ll love that)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Yeah it’s got a lot going for it! Which rivers would you recommend? No need to give specifics I can follow my nose :)

[@whitebaitbigfoot]

@@AlexanderAyling the best starting point is the Ruamahanga river as it’s the main river and holds good numbers of fish and any of its tributaries are awesome. Some great backcountry fly fishing up these tributaries in the Tararua ranges

[@AlexanderAyling]

I’m keen to get up in the Tararua Ranges. Looks so epic up there

[@samanthawilcox3950]

My fiancée and I just moved to a beautiful cottage in the Wairarapa and we love it here 🥰 welcome and good luck with your house hunt!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Samantha 🙏🏼

[@kytddjj]

Car shock absorbers attached to diagonal brace, inside the walls of timber house, absorb earthquake energy.

[@dandelionlovemonkey]

I hope everything flows your way. You two would make great parents:)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you :)

[@mizlife]

You guys should buy a section in an area you love and get a brand new house built. Lots of people are moving out of the big cities and doing just that. Will take more time but will be worth the wait. :D

[@Tom_McMurtry]

Better value/cost savings doing this too!

[@moniquevelasco20]

You guys are definitely in the right track. Keep searching, I’m sure you are so close to your dream house. Beautiful lands. Be safe! 😘🤗🌼🇻🇪

[@AlexanderAyling]

Gracias Monique! 🙏🏼

[@taurangasurf]

I bought a lovely villa in Kibblewhite Road, Masterton , Wairarapa when we first moved to NZ from the UK in 1997. We were in Masterton for 2 years then moved to Tauranga then Auckland and now about to build a house in Dunedin. All lovely but hard to beat the South Island for beautiful scenery. Good luck with your house search.

[@AlexanderAyling]

You’ve been all over!

[@Storm4155]

The rain is NZ's number one resource.

[@AlexanderAyling]

In a changing planet with water shortages you have a point

[@sagarandami]

I wish I could tell you everything will be alright but sadly, it is indeed a very draining process of buying a house in NZ! There is no easy way out!! Hopefully you will find your dream home soon 🥰

[@chasingadeline]

Houses in New Zealand is so expensive!!! Well it’s like Southen California prices!!! But Property taxes are a lot lower!! Hope you guys fine something!!! Love watching your adventure in New Zealand.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! Yes the market is crazy here right now

[@noname-tk2qq]

Thanks for these good emotions coming from you.

[@AlexanderAyling]

No worries! Thank you for tuning in 🤙🏼

[@oscarnielsen2286]

The area surrounding the last house was truly stunning. I could see myself living in a place like that

[@AlexanderAyling]

Agreed! Real nice grazing lands. Sheep would be mandatory haha

[@patriciamclaren132]

Thank you for sharing. Very insightful and uplifting video. What you guys expressed makes my lonely experience of house hunting less daunting. ❤

[@AlexanderAyling]

You can do it Patricia. Stay positive and keep looking ❤️🙏🏼

[@Stegar]

I grew up in the Wairarapa, and while all the natural beauty doesn't appeal to me that much in terms of living there anymore, you seem like someone who appreciates the outdoors a lot more than I do, so I think it might be a good fit for you. The advantage of the Wairarapa is that Wellington is an easy drive away or you can even catch the train into the city. Best of luck with your house hunting, the Wairarapa is booming right now!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!

[@barbararuby3557]

The Goldie print you showed on one house tour gave me fond memories of my grandparents house with the same print. Interesting to learn about the artist.

[@xxshane94xx]

Came across this channel when looking for useful camping items as I want to start touring with my bike in the UK. I'm now hooked and I'm wanting to start travelling the world :D You seriously deserve success on KZbin I wish you all the best with your move :) I love your channel it's so pure and close to nature! Keep the videos coming :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Shane! I’ve done some bicycle touring and have a mtn bike packing series on the channel. Also I have my touring bike and Mtn bike here in NZ and am planning some rides and series so stay tuned. Definitely would love to cycle tour in the UK

[@denisbellars9260]

Great videos , all the food looks top class and the scenery is beautiful , good luck finding or building your dream house 🏠

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Dean

[@lindsaylusted8205]

I love getting to see the journey you're both on, thank you so much for sharing. Also I am starting to really miss Carrie's content, I hope she's doing well 💛

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Lindsay! We appreciate it! Carrie is doing well 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@duvetcat]

Go with the flow and listen to the universe !

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Tanya! Stay tuned for some big news this weekend :)

[@unpluggedkiwi1063]

What I like straight after rain, is that everything smells so fresh, especially if one is in the country or bush areas. I chose to live in my caravan so that I can go wherever the mood takes me. Sometimes I stay in one place for months, other times only a day or two. However I do have the advantage that I am retired (just) and I am by myself, so have only myself to please.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Gotta love that freedom 🙏🏼

[@unpluggedkiwi1063]

@@AlexanderAyling I have owned 5 houses over the years, but this is what I have dreamed of for over 30 years.

[@laurakinney8538]

My husband and I are starting our house hunting journey today. Unfortunately, we're in an area where the housing prices have skyrocketed and house are being bought, sight unseen, within hours of them going on the market. We know it'll be a long journey for us, but we're ready to get started!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Best of luck Laura! It will work out how it is supposed to 🙏🏼

[@helencarter4902]

Seems such a beautiful area, hope you find something that makes your hearts soar. Gorgeous shots of the frosty flowers and the animal friends!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Helen. Patience and persistence

[@pepta]

Is that unusual to get frosts in the Hawkes Bay? Here in Otago it's normal to get frosts, although this year we've had them more frequently than usual

[@JoinMyTrip.]

Wow, So happy for you guys thanks for sharing this experience with us. 😃😃😃

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you for watching and leaving a nice comment

[@JoinMyTrip.]

@@AlexanderAyling Pleasure is mine ❤️

[@vinnynz]

Nice job house hunting and showcasing what the country has to offer. Good luck.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Vinny 🤙🏼

[@FaisalKhan-my1jd]

Emotionally resilient “ I think u were looking for this word.

[@shareehancock379]

The Wairarapa is a great place to live. I miss living there.

[@AlexanderAyling]

When and where did you live?

[@effie-montreal]

Guys when it is the right house you will feel it the minute you enter it.....Sorry Carrie was upset at the window

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Effie

[@sandrah5405]

At least with the re-located house, you would know the piles are new and sound, and probably the electrical wiring too. Always check the piles in old houses. Open and shut doors and look for any sticking or gaps around the doors. Also if the house has a fireplace, often that will be at the original height of the floor (because the fireplace is given very strong foundations) and you may notice that the floors slope away downwards from an old fireplace. I've even heard of people taking a marble with them to place on the floor and see where it rolls! Of course, if you are really interested in a property, always get a builders report as that should uncover any issues with foundations etc.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sandra! And yes, any offer we’d put in would be subject to a satisfactory builders report.

[@jschleifer]

The Wairarapa is a wonderful area!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Such a great spot!

[@TribalSolider]

Carterton is such a nice place went to my younger brothers wedding there earlier this year.

[@AlexanderAyling]

It's a really chill little town, hope your bro had a fun wedding!

[@joayres5264]

Stormy Point! I knew it looked familiar 😊 Welcome to my neighborhood, the Manawatu is a great area! Cute rural towns but also close to the cities. Feilding (my town) does a great farmers market 😀

[@AlexanderAyling]

It lived up to its name when we visited! It was stormy as!

[@catherineramampy4856]

Great vlog! Thanks for sharing, it's really inspiring and interesting 👌🏾 PS: the pain au chocolat is French 🇫🇷and not Italian

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Catherine!

[@rogerb4436]

You really need to check the flooding record if the property is near or around rivers etc as alot of our rivers tend to flood in major wet rainy spells. But you probably already done this. Good luck on your search

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Roger. Yeah we keep an eye on flood zones for sure. A few of the places we’ve seen were in them and that was a no go

[@TheJustinM]

You guys are experiencing the worst part of NZ at the moment, the housing crisis. It's really a tough one and I can see its a weight on your shoulders. All I have to offer is to say be patient, we are in a perfect storm of issues at the moment and it will pass. Don't rush into anything. Enjoyed the vid 🤙 take it easy

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Justin! Slow and steady wins the race. Cheers

[@charlotteblack7593]

I have broken the 5 house rule every time I have gone house hunting. I think the most I did in one 12 hour period was 10 places (and yes I picked one and live in it currently - no regrets). Its helps that I have particular design taste and trained as an archaeologist and work in heritage currently, so I have a strong understanding of structures what to look for and what to avoid/ understanding of different historical features I might be looking at. Side note if you haven't guessed yet I hate Ticky Tacky, no suburban hell for me! That being said, I always make a ranked list and do more than your average research of each property before I visit (crazy things like previous property tax figures). The more prepared I am the less likely I am to waste my time on properties that may work vs does. Plus my husbands demands are always, "Does it have a roof? Does it have walls? Is it in budget?" So we always end up in a house I love and he lives in.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Sounds like you know what you’re looking for! Probably a bonus your husbands easy to please haha. Thanks for watching and sharing 🙏🏼

[@hjmccollum]

I’m from Hastings, I knew that landscape immediately! Good luck!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Cheers Mainly!

[@kathryndainty9299]

My hometown ❤ I grew up in Tawa and loved it there

[@AlexanderAyling]

🙌🏼

[@stargazer5073]

Happiest dog ever!

[@AlexanderAyling]

He’s a great little guy

[@TheEmzies]

Definitely agree seeing more than 5 is too much in one day. I actually found my house as I was visiting a friend who lived on the street and saw the sign going up. Put in an offer straight away. Good luck for the house hunt.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Perfect timing on your part!

[@JackyWacky1]

Because of you guys Ive added New Zealand to my bucketlist. I never really knew anything about NZ but it looks absolutely beautiful! Probably wont visit for years to come but one day :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Jackie! Is your profile pic Kauai?

[@JackyWacky1]

@@AlexanderAyling yes it is :) Good eye!! Went there for my honeymoon and loved it

[@isthisthekrustykrab_]

Have you guys thought about looking at places in the Waikato? The countryside around Cambridge/Tamahere/Gordonton/Morrinsville is very beautiful (flat but lush and slightly warmer than the Southern North island). It's also close to Hamilton, and the Coromandel and Tauranga are very accessible.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hey Patrick. We’ve done a bit of looking up there but we feel being closer to Wellington and the creative hub there is a bonus

[@isthisthekrustykrab_]

@@AlexanderAyling oh that makes complete sense! You'll have the best of both worlds 🌎 I can't wait for the next instalment 👌🏻

[@lostamonglocals5382]

Best of luck in finding a new home! Like you said enjoy the journey.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@lynette1717]

Another great video, I always enjoy them. Congrats

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Lynette

[@daver7867]

i hope you's find your happy place....where ever that maybe

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Dave!

[@RicardoVale1234]

Thanks for sharing with us! Cheers.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks for tuning in Ricardo

[@ohyehannahadventures1181]

I and my husband are looking at moving to NZ in a few years. You guys have done so well..god bless! How did you both decide to pick north over south? I am so torn between the two!

[@MiaCatAdventures]

Best of luck in your house hunt, the area looks so beautiful even in the raindrops.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!

[@KevsCollectibles]

You both have such an amazing philosophy and outlook on life, I find it so inspiring and rejuvenating! I totally agree with what you say about life leaving you signs that you are on the right path having experienced many coincidences in life myself. I'm so happy that you are loving this beautiful country :)

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Kev! Gotta keep your ears and eyes open to the signs :)

[@stephaniebourne8243]

We live just up the road in Masterton but we lived Rurally in Carterton for a few years and we loved it there! For us there is no better place than the Wairarapa!! Hopefully you will join us in this beautiful place! Have you tried Poppies vineyard in Martinborough, it the best!!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Stephanie! We hope to be neighbors soon :)

[@stephaniebourne8243]

If you are still in the Carterton area you might want to check out Fensham reserve it's just outside Carterton. It will be an easy little hike for you but I find it challenging but very refreshing!

[@deniseockey8989]

Guttered you didn't get the CHB place. I do really love the Wairarapa area though (greytown esepecially), I also love Feilding, I think if I moved from Napier it would be to Feilding.

[@AlexanderAyling]

It all happens for a reason though. Staying positive and hopefully have some good news here shortly

[@mrpaisleyshirt]

Nice area, lot's of space, but not too far from civilization. All those animals seemed happy anyway.

[@AlexanderAyling]

It’s a nice balance for sure

[@GODISMYSTERIOUS]

I love sheep and lambs. They are beautiful animals.

[@AlexanderAyling]

They are for sure!

[@radioactivekiwi6639]

i was born in the Wairarapa Carterton and Featherston are my hometown, if u love country feeling the Featherston is great and if u want that small-town vibe Carterton is nice but if ur more for the wine country Martinborough is nice Masterton is nice too Carterton does have a festival in the spring for the daffodils then Masterton has the golden shears and Featherston has booktown , fun fact my family are part of the founding families of Featherston

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! It’s such a nice area!

[@cjdenney9385]

I'm going to Wellington for Study Abroad through HECUA! I'd love to know more about it and other places to visit on the North Island! :) Love your videos Alex and Carrie ❤

[@AlexanderAyling]

Nice! When do you start your studies?

[@cjdenney9385]

@@AlexanderAyling I'll be leaving for NZ January 31st :))

[@catherinecarr3506]

Let life guide you… yes this is where I am .. the present is called that for a reason .. it’s a gift

[@randomgardener3799]

Looks like you ventured into South Wairarapa too

[@AlexanderAyling]

We did! :)