Bayleys Whanganui expands into new territory

Owner John Bartley and regional GM Rachel Thomson expand their Bayleys empire with a deal a year in the making.

Bayleys Whanganui and Ruapehu is expanding with the acquisition of Bayleys Manawatū.

It will take over the Palmerston North and Feilding offices as well as a rebrand of the existing Marton agency.

“I’ve had Bayleys Whanganui and Ruapehu for six years, and naturally this opportunity presented itself early last year," owner John Bartley said.

The business will expand from 38 staff over two offices to 65 staff across five offices and keep all current staff.

The offices under Bartley’s ownership will cover a significant amount of the Manawatū-Whanganui region including Ruapehu, Whanganui, Palmerston North, Manawatū and Rangitīkei.

“Quite simply our goal is to grow,” Bartley said.

Regional general manager Rachel Thomson has been leading the charge.

The expansion into Manawatū more than doubles the business’ population reach.

According to the 2023 census data 78,250 people live across the Ruapehu, Rangitīkei, and Whanganui districts with 117,000 across Manawatū and Palmerston North.

“The growth opportunity is significant,” Bartley said.

Bartley, who was born and bred in Whanganui, said there were key differences in the markets and personalisation was needed.

Palmerston North had larger commercial opportunities, Manawatū more land and Ruapehu provided tourism opportunities.

“We’re a family business at heart and we want to look after our people,” he said.

“I think if we do the basics well, and do real estate really well, we’ll get results and great results for our clients.”

Olivia Reid is a multimedia journalist based in Whanganui.