Auckland couple part of trend to turn provincial

Tina Kennedy (right) pictured with husband Scott Kennedy and daughter Olivia Kennedy, says her family has decided to sell up in Auckland and move to Hawke's Bay. Photo / Supplied

Tina Kennedy says it was a "no brainer" to sell up in Auckland and buy a house in Hawke's Bay.

She and her family are all set to move into their new home, which would have cost more than double the price if it were in the Super City.

Ms Kennedy was "very excited" about the move, inspired by the region's low house prices and the allure of a new lifestyle.

"It did take a lot of decision making, because we perhaps won't be paid as much in Hawke's Bay, but that's where the lifestyle comes in. It's so beautiful in Hawke's Bay, it's a no brainer really," she said.

Their new home in Bay View was "amazing value" - it cost about $410,000, whereas a similar property in Auckland would cost more than double that, or about $900,000.

The Kennedys are part of a growing trend of Aucklanders shutting up shop and making a break for a house in the provinces.

"It means we can be mortgage-free, which is wonderful. Financially it will make our future a lot more positive; there will be more travel, and we'll have more disposable income."

The family is originally from Hawke's Bay, but lived in Auckland for seven years, after job opportunities lured them there.

They set up an Auckland-based business, which they have now sold.

She said they wouldn't miss the City of Sails.

"Not at all. Not the traffic - my husband would take an hour and a half to get to work. The cost of living is also a lot higher, not just housing. It's astronomical."

She was also confident she and her husband would be able to find employment in Hawke's Bay.