Waikato Real Estate, specialist property management agency based in Hamilton, has once again been recognised as the Property Management Agency of the Year (Large Office) at the Property Management Conference 2025 held in Auckland.
The award recognises the agency’s “outstanding contribution to property management over the past year – measured through quality, service, and performance.” This is Waikato Real Estate’s second major national win in three years.
Managing Director Michelle Pearson said the award was an extraordinary recognition of the team’s commitment to excellence and care.
“Winning this award again is a huge honour for our team. It reflects years of consistent effort to create a property management business where both people and performance thrive.
“We’re proud of the culture we’ve built – one where our property managers are supported, our clients are empowered, and our community connections are real. We don’t aim to be the biggest, just the best at what we do – and this award shows we’re on the right path,” Pearson said.
Judges praised the agency for its innovative systems, people-first culture, and measurable business results that continue to elevate the industry standard.
“It is clear from the outside looking in that Waikato Real Estate is a curated and intentional business. Nothing comes across as accidental – it’s as if Oliver and Michelle masterminded it all,” says Sarina Gibbon, Tenancy Advisory Services.
The agency came in praise from Drake Farmer, Chief Operating Officer, Renti also.
“A slick video backed by incredible testimonials, including suppliers, which really stands out as a point of difference. Overall, an exceptional submission,” Farmer said.
Over the past year, the service and strategy of Waikato Real Estate’s team resulted in the agency achieving a 99.5% occupancy rate, completed more than 900 rent reviews, and project-managed 25 full renovations for investor clients. The team added 150 new landlord clients and maintained an industry-leading client retention rate of just 2%.
Behind the success of the company is a team of dedicated 18 professionals. Hayden Mai, Head of Training & Development (& also one of the Senior Property Managers) himself joined the company in 2007 and took over the current role in 2024. “The average tenure of staff is over seven years – a rarity in the sector,” says Mai.
Hamilton-based, Waikato Real Estate is a family-owned property management agency that was established in 1985 and manages over 1,200 rental properties valued at nearly $1 billion.
