Who I am
I'm Shane Carpenter, a real estate agent with Compass in Southern California. The property at 2 Galatea Terrace, Herne Bay, Auckland belongs to my sister Lelah. She's the owner; I'm just helping.
Why this site exists
The property isn't formally listed at the moment. But on March 6, 2026, New Zealand reversed its 2018 foreign buyer ban for holders of the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa. For the first time in seven years, qualifying Americans can purchase residential property in NZ over NZD $5 million.
That rule change opened a door. American interest in New Zealand has surged — driven by burnout, lifestyle, political climate, and wealth diversification. Lelah and I started this site as a quiet resource for people considering the move, with the property as one example of what's possible in Auckland's most prestigious suburb.
What this site does
- Explains the AIP visa rule change in plain English
- Answers the questions Americans tend to ask about moving to NZ
- Shares a peer perspective for US healthcare professionals (I'm a US-trained physical therapist who got my NZ license through endorsement, so I know the credentialing process firsthand)
- Connects qualified inquirers with vetted New Zealand-licensed advisers — immigration, legal, real estate
- If you're in Southern California and considering selling your US home before a move, that's my actual day job at Compass and I'm happy to help
What this site is not
- Not a formal real estate listing. The property is presented as an example of what qualifying buyers can find in Herne Bay; engagement of a New Zealand-licensed listing agent is handled separately when the property goes back on the market.
- Not legal, immigration, tax, or medical advice. I'm a US real estate agent. Anything actionable on this site should be confirmed with the appropriate New Zealand-licensed professional before you rely on it. Full disclaimers here.
- Not a lead-resale or marketing list. Information you share is used only to follow up on your inquiry and to make introductions to relevant professionals — not sold, rented, or shared for unrelated marketing.
What to expect when you reach out
Inquiries come to me directly. While Lelah is traveling, I'm the one fielding them. I'll personally follow up within 24 hours — usually much sooner — with the right introduction or just more information. No high-pressure sales process.
If you'd rather start with a phone call, just say so when you submit the form (or email me directly: info@shanecarpenterconsulting.com). I work in Pacific time but happy to schedule around any time zone.
The short version
Sister-helping-sister, with the AIP visa rule change as the reason this conversation matters now. Quiet, honest, low-pressure — and if I can connect you with the right people on the New Zealand side, I will.