Feature article
Eco-home frenzy: the skyrocketing demand for sustainable living
This beautiful eco-home sparked a bidding frenzy as Kiwi buyers increasingly search for energy-efficient features
24 March 2026
AI summary
Demand for eco-homes is surging in New Zealand as buyers seek energy efficiency. A renovated Auckland home by architectural designer Eddie van Uden recently sold for $1.561 million, highlighting strong interest in its passive design and solar features.
This trend is reflected in Trade Me search data, showing huge year-on-year increases for keywords like:
- 'off-grid' (up 68%)
- 'solar' (up 67%)
- 'double glazing' (up 60%)
These sustainable features appeal to a wide range of buyers looking to lower their energy costs.
Red bookshelf and fireplace in eco home
A 'green' property in all senses
The architectural designer was careful to reuse as many materials as he could in the renovation to avoid construction waste, reusing the bricks and timber from the original 1940s home in the garden.
Eddie converted the former living room into an attractive, spacious kitchen
The home which had a $1.25 million CV sold at auction for $1.561 million
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