A Queenstown estate has set a new record for New Zealand's most expensive house, selling for over $40 million. The sale, confirmed by OneRoof, surpasses the previous record of $38.5 million from 2013. The property's address and parties involved remain confidential. Queenstown agent Hamish Walker, who brokered the deal, notes the estate is one of several high-value properties he has sold recently. Despite the record-breaking sale, Walker does not anticipate a surge in foreign buyers due to National's proposed changes to foreign buyers' rules. OneRoof's data partner, Valocity, indicates a slow year for the luxury market, with fewer high-value sales compared to previous years. The article also compares the sale to the global luxury market, suggesting New Zealand remains at the lower end of pricing.

The article by Catherine Smith discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on British expatriates living in Belgium, Australia, and the United States. It highlights the stories of three expats who have faced travel restrictions, isolation from family, and the challenges of adapting to new work and life routines during the pandemic. Jo, a data analyst in Belgium, feels isolated due to travel restrictions despite the proximity to the UK. Sarah, a graphic designer in Australia, misses live events and is cautious about traveling. John, an IT manager in the US, criticizes the UK's vaccine policy for not recognizing vaccinations received abroad. All three expatriates are hopeful for a return to normalcy and are eager to travel again once it is safe to do so.

The most viewed global real estate listings in 2019 featured a mix of luxury homes and historic properties. In the UK, football stars' homes like Andy Carroll's Essex mansion and Phil Neville's Manchester penthouse were popular. Historic homes included a Scottish castle and a Grade-I listed estate in Devon. Australia's top sales were dominated by Sydney properties, with a record-breaking $140m sale for a Barangaroo apartment. The New York Times listings showed a preference for historic homes, such as a 1760s colonial house in New Jersey, as well as luxury modern properties like a Los Angeles mansion asking $42.6m. The article highlights the public's fascination with high-end real estate, whether for serious buying or daydreaming.

Auckland's most expensive suburbs, including St Marys Bay, Remuera, and Herne Bay, have seen significant increases in median house prices over the past 20 years, with some rising more than $1.4 million. OneRoof and Valocity's data analysis reveals the growth in New Zealand's property market, with suburbs like Sandspit also joining the million-dollar club. Real estate agents like David Rainbow and Anne Duncan comment on market trends and the future potential of areas like Newmarket and suburbs along train lines.

Justin Stuppy, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Class of 2017 graduate and K-9 Unit Officer, credits the university for providing the necessary training and education for his career with the City of Whitewater Police Department. Stuppy, originally from California, moved to Wisconsin and took advantage of programs and classes at UW-W, eventually becoming the president of the Law Enforcement Organization. He emphasizes the importance of taking life at one's own pace and setting personal goals.

Steve and Bridget Bond appreciated the walkability of their 1930s bungalow in Mt Eden, Auckland, after moving there. The area's convenience for their children to bike or walk to school and the proximity to the city and train stations were significant advantages. The quiet street, not a thoroughfare, becomes even more peaceful on game days at nearby Eden Park due to street closures. The Bonds made the house comfortable and planned renovations but decided against living through the construction process. They have since moved to a renovated home. The property features original bedrooms, updated bathrooms, insulation, HRV, fresh paint, a backyard perfect for children, and a modern garage supplementing the original one.

Angela and Craig Bruce are selling their spacious Edwardian villa in St Marys Bay after their children moved out. The house features stunning sunset views, a pool, two underground garages, and has been renovated to include modern amenities like a home automation system and a temperature-controlled wine room. The property offers easy access to waterfront walks and cafes in Wynyard Quarter and Westhaven, and is close to Ponsonby.

Auckland offers a variety of events this weekend, including Westhaven Marina's Open Day with sailing and market activities, Dawn Chorus birdwatching on Tiritiri Matangi Island, the Auckland Doll and Teddy Fair at the Auckland Deaf Society, the SPCA Blessing of the Animals at St Matthew-in-the-city, and the Inter High School Spoken Word Slam semi-finals featuring students from various high schools.

Auckland's annual Heritage Festival features a variety of events that allow participants to explore the city's history and culture. Highlights include family activities at the Pah Homestead, a digital trail at the new Devonport Library, and the celebration of Birkenhead as New Zealand's only sugar town. The festival also offers sea-based stories with the restoration of the steamship Toroa, a 'white glove' overnight event at the Maritime Museum's library, and steam tug tours by Ports of Auckland. Additionally, there are workshops on tombstone-rubbing, a range of guided walks exploring different aspects of Auckland's history, and hands-on volcano experiments with the University of Auckland.