The number of new homes approved for construction in August was up 17 per cent, the second month of increases, with retirement units and earthquake-related replacement homes lifting the numbers, says Statistics New Zealand.

Tax-free capital gains on property investment is the one crippling flaw remaining in our economy.

The prospect that Labour's proposed capital gains tax may include the sale of all businesses, shares and other assets sparked fresh debate in the business community.

Tenancy Tribunal hears property mogul and Westpac chief settled out of court.

Software geeks have taken over Christchurch's High School Old Boys rugby club, after the earthquake pushed them out of upmarket CBD offices.

Limiting increases in rents in Christchurch would stop residents being hit by profiteering landlords, Labour deputy leader Annette King suggested today.

Auckland faces a rent shock as the Christchurch earthquake diaspora, rising insurance premiums and the loss of a landlords' tax break all affect demand.