Owning a home in New Zealand is one of life’s great milestones but it also comes with the responsibility of keeping your property in top shape. Here in the Bay of Plenty, our coastal climate brings its own unique challenges, from salty sea air that can wear away paintwork, to humid conditions that invite mould if not managed. Staying proactive with seasonal maintenance helps protect your biggest investment, ensuring your home stays comfortable, healthy, and efficient all year round.

Summer: Sunshine, paintbrushes, and prevention

With long daylight hours and reliable weather, summer is the perfect time to tackle big maintenance projects.

  • Paint and exterior upkeep: Warm, dry conditions are ideal for repainting, staining decks, or repairing cladding and fences. Paint adheres best when humidity is low.
  • Check your roof: Inspect for cracked tiles, rust patches, or lifted flashing before the next wet season.
  • Service your air conditioning or heat pump: Clean filters and schedule a service to keep it running efficiently before winter.
  • Garden care: Trim back trees and shrubs to keep them clear of gutters and roofs.
  • Keep an eye out for Bugs: Ants, flies, and other insects that thrive in the warmer months. Seal entry points, clean food surfaces regularly, and consider natural repellents or pest control if needed.

Autumn: Prepare for rain and cooler days

As leaves fall and the temperature drops, preparation is key.

  • Clear gutters and downpipes: Essential before heavy rain sets in - blocked gutters can cause overflow and dampness.
  • Check drainage: Ensure stormwater drains and soak holes are clear, so water flows away from your home.
  • Seal gaps and draughts: Inspect windows and doors for gaps that let in cold air. Weather-stripping is a quick, cost-effective fix.
  • Service heating systems: Whether it’s your fireplace or heat pump, autumn is the time to get everything ready for regular winter use.

Winter: Stay warm, dry, and vigilant

During the colder months, focus on keeping warmth in and moisture out.

  • Check for leaks: After heavy rain, inspect ceilings and walls for signs of damp or water stains.
  • Ventilation: Run extractor fans and open windows when possible, to prevent condensation and mould.
  • Insulation: Check that your ceiling and underfloor insulation are intact and effective, it’ll make a noticeable difference.
  • Safety checks: Test smoke alarms and ensure your chimney or flue is clear before lighting fires.

Spring: Refresh, repair, and rejuvenate

After months indoors, spring is the season to breathe new life into your home.

  • Deep clean: Wash windows, decks, and exterior walls to remove mould, mildew, and salt build-up.
  • Garden reset: Fertilise lawns, tidy garden beds, and refresh outdoor spaces ahead of summer.
  • Plumbing check: Look for any slow leaks or drips that may have developed over the winter.
  • Plan ahead: Book tradespeople early for any summer renovation projects, they book up fast!

A little regular maintenance goes a long way

Seasonal home care might sound like a lot of work, but staying on top of it saves time and money in the long run. By taking a proactive approach, you’ll extend the life of your property, boost its value, and keep it a place you love to call home.

At EVES, we know your home is one of your most important investments. Whether you’re looking for advice on maintaining your property, buying, or selling, our local experts are here to help.

For more homeowner tips, talk to your local EVES team today.