Positive news for the housing market - as sales and prices are holding steady

The Real Estate Institute's House Price Index is down 0.4 percent over the past year.

While Wellington and Auckland continue to slide - the regions are lifting, with Canterbury up 2.6 percent and Otago 2.5 percent to a new record high.

REINZ Chief Executive, Lizzy Ryley says with interest rates easing - buyer's capacity is easing.

She says it's good news for buyers and sellers because it gives them confidence.