Connecting Academia, the Property Industry, and Society

The Property Foundation is an independent charity working to promote our Vision: A property sector rooted in our society and culture where universities and industry are connected and knowledge flows freely between them.

Welcome to

The Property Foundation

We have a clear goal based on the Foundation’s 30 year history of bringing together people working in the industry and academia.

Our Mission is to enhance the sector’s ability to address key issues and opportunities through improved access to independent academic research and the stimulation of new research while encouraging and supporting young talent into the industry.

Provide Opportunities

Provide opportunities for frequent, high-quality interaction, dialogue and knowledge transfer between academic, industry and societal leaders.

Facilitate Funding

Facilitate funding for postgraduate, post-doc and faculty level research projects that are relevant to the needs and goals of the property industry.

Attract More Youth

Attract more high school students to enrol for property degrees by raising awareness of the value of a career in property.

Provide Opportunities

Provide opportunities for frequent, high-quality interaction, dialogue and knowledge transfer between academic, industry and societal leaders.

Facilitate Funding

Facilitate funding for postgraduate, post-doc and faculty level research projects that are relevant to the needs and goals of the property industry.

Attract More Youth

Attract more high school students to enrol for property degrees by raising awareness of the value of a career in property.

What's New in Research

Not all commercial and corporate tenants are created equal.

This paper from Auckland University's Business School examines tenant characteristics and REIT performance. It enhances understanding how tenant business characteristics influence the risk-return performance of directly held commercial real estate portfolios.

Does NZ need better governance around urban design?

This review by researcher David Batchelor at VUW's School of Architecture systematically examines how urban design can deliver less than ideal outcomes in New Zealand and puts forward some solutions.

The impact of Up-Zoning.

Associate Professor of Economics Ryan Greenaway-McGrevy and Distinguished Professor Peter Phillips from the University of Auckland shed new light on the efficacy of up-zoning to address housing shortages and affordability challenges.

Auckland 2050 - Building the Future City 2 April 2025

This timely event is a collaboration between the Property Foundation and the School of Future Environments at AUT. Our expert panel will share their views and concerns, how processes may need to adapt, and what the future holds for the built environment and those who will build it. Hear their truly expert opinion, enjoy the discussion and share refreshments with colleagues.

See key take aways

RMA Reforms and Implications for the Industry
28 November 2024

Starting with a clear explanation of the proposed legislation and the timetable for it’s introduction the panel went on to examine the real-world state of our infrastructure and some possibilities for development to progress more smoothly. To download the slide deck and the video recording click below.

See key take aways

Generative AI and the Property Industry 25 July 2024

Our expert panel explored the relevant tech and it’s applications, how to integrate AI into your business and highlighted important legal aspects.

See key take aways

Who We Are

Our Board of Trustees guides the implementation of our Vision and Mission. Together, they bring a balanced blend of expertise and experience in both the property industry and academia.