Commerce Commission launches cartel proceedings against Harcourts franchises

Tuesday 23 September 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Tue 23 Sep 2025, 4:17pm

In this story Commerce Commission, John Small

The Commerce Commission has started civil proceedings alleging cartel conduct and price-fixing in the Christchurch property market. The action involves Harcourts Group Limited and four franchisees, including Four Seasons Realty 2017 Limited and Gold Real Estate Group Limited. The commission claims the alleged conduct was damaging due to the businesses' significant market share.

How they headlined it

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12:27pm4:17pm

1. 1NewsTue 23 Sep 2025, 12:27pm

   Cartel allegations against major Christchurch real estate players (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldTue 23 Sep 2025, 12:34pm

   Harcourts’ Christchurch franchisees face Commerce Commission cartel action (opens in new tab)

3. Otago Daily TimesTue 23 Sep 2025, 4:17pm

   Real estate franchisees accused of price fixing (opens in new tab)