There are generally no restrictions on foreigners owning properties in New Zealand, except for in the cases of sensitive, culturally significant or protected land where permission does have to be sought from the government. Properties for sale in New Zealand are widely available and potential foreign off plan property investors enjoy a number of benefits. Restrictions only really apply to large investments and large plots of land, where special permission has to be sought.

Residency visas are generally required, and there are a number of different classes of permit available. The 'investor' category requires that the person applying is going to invest at least NZ$2 million (around £750,000 or £1,500,000) over five years, and that they are under 55 years old. These stipulations often change, however, so it is always wise to check beforehand - those turned down one month may be accepted just a few later, even with the same contributions and qualifications offered.

 http://www.oio.linz.govt.nz/index.htm

 http://www.immigration.govt.nz/