Buying guide
NZ Capital Gains Tax: Labour's Plan and What's Already Law
Watch out – the rules could change in 2027
AI summary
New Zealand has a limited bright-line test, but the Labour Party has proposed a wider Capital Gains Tax (CGT) for the 2026 election.
If enacted, a 28% tax would apply to gains on investment and commercial properties sold after 1 July 2027, with family homes exempt. Supporters argue it promotes fairness, while critics highlight compliance costs and its narrow focus.
Property owners should monitor the outcome and seek professional advice if the law changes.
In this article you’ll learn:
What is a capital gains tax?
Does NZ already have a capital gains tax?
What happens in here (and in voting booths) will ultimately decide whether or not we end up with a more broad CGT.
A closer look at Labour’s capital gains tax proposal
The case for a capital gains tax in NZ
The family home is exempt from Labour's proposal.
The case against a capital gains tax in NZ
Against a capital gains tax generally
Against the details of Labour’s plan
I own a property, what should I do now?
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