The trans-Tasman brand has accelerated its New Zealand growth with the launch of its fifth office in 12 months.
A new office in Nelson marks First National Real Estate’s eighth office on New Zealand’s South Island and comes off the back of a strong year of growth, according to the Australasian brand.
Penelope Rollston, a well-known figure in Nelson’s local real estate industry, has come on board as principal and brings with her 18 years of industry experience.
“Real estate isn’t just about properties; it’s about people,” Rollston said.
“Every home has a story, and every sale or purchase is a life-changing event. My goal is to make these transitions seamless and memorable for every client,” she shared.
According to Rollston, the launch of First National Nelson signals a homecoming for the international brand, explaining that “First National has always been a respected name in Nelson’s real estate scene”.
“When I began my career, the brand stood as a beacon of trust and integrity,” Rollston said. “Today, I’m delighted to bring back that legacy to Nelson, combining my expertise with First National’s values and business support.”
With an abundance of national parks and countryside on its doorstep, the Nelson real estate market covers a diverse array of property types, from traditional residential sales to rural and lifestyle properties.
In her role as principal, Rollston shared she is excited to continue advancing the rollout of new digital technologies within the brand.
“Before stepping into real estate, I faced my shared of disappointments when selling my own homes,” Rollston said.
According to the principal, one of the drawcards of her current role is the opportunity to incorporate the brand’s “absolute commitment to innovation” and “industry-leading digital marketing”.
First National Nelson follows hot on the heels of offices in Takaka, Christchurch, Ashburton, Temuka, Wanaka, Cromwell, Gore and Riverton, along with an additional 25 offices on the North Island.
The proliferation of new offices in New Zealand comes in the wake of the network’s 2022 decision to adopt their Australian model on the other side of the Tasman Sea.
At the time, First National noted that the strategic shift had “broadened the brand’s appeal to franchisees and independent agents” in Australia, an effect which they hoped to replicate in New Zealand.
The move coincided with the appointment of Matthew Harvey as head of growth for Australia and New Zealand.