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How much would the cleanest air in Auckland cost you?
Air pollution is a serious concern in many countries. Some cities have such an issue with it, in fact, that entrepreneurs have even started selling bottled air. Thankfully, here in New Zealand, we have some of the cleanest air in the world - the World Health Organisation ranks us as having the second lowest level of air pollution globally.
However, just like finding the next property hotspot, grand national trends can only tell you so much. If you wanted to buy some real estate with the freshest oxygen in Auckland, where would you look - and how much would you have to pay for the privilege?
Avoiding particulates
The image of New Zealand as being clean and green is incredibly important to our economy, our industry and our national identity. We are often seen as one of the last green places in the world, but when it comes to clean air, it isn't the number of trees that is used as a metric - not directly anyway.
Rather, it is the number of pollutant particles in the atmosphere that Land Air and Water Aotearoa (LAWA) uses to measure the level of air quality. According to this organisation, the place with the freshest air in Auckland is none other than Glen Eden, closely followed by Henderson. Due to our low population density and isolation from more pollutant-heavy countries, Kiwis enjoy plenty of clean air, but these suburbs are truly Cloud Nine for people who like to breathe easy.
The cost of fresh air
According to QV, you would have to spend anywhere between $660,000 to $700,000 for the average property in either Glen Eden or Henderson. The cost of clean air isn't likely to stay the same though: With 14 to 16 per cent annual value increases in these suburbs, these price tags are likely to only go up.
But why would you want to prioritise clean air? LAWA explains that microscopic pollutants can have adverse effects on your health, such as reduced lung function or even a general drop in life expectancy. Of course there are plenty of other factors at play, but it looks like those who choose the area with the freshest air can expect a longer lifetime in which to enjoy it as well.
Thinking of moving to where the air is cleaner? Make sure you get in touch with the property advice team at Squirrel and find out how we can help you with all your mortgage broking needs.
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The opinions expressed in this article should not be taken as financial advice, or a recommendation of any financial product. Squirrel shall not be liable or responsible for any information, omissions, or errors present. Any commentary provided are the personal views of the author and are not necessarily representative of the views and opinions of Squirrel. We recommend seeking professional investment and/or mortgage advice before taking any action.
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