Farms seem to be in hot demand, as new data shows the sale of rural properties is increasing

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand's latest report shows Waikato had the most sales with 59, an increase of 18 percent in the year to September.

Southland's sales are up more than 110 percent, and regional areas such as Taranaki and Manawatu increased around 30 percent.

Rural Spokesperson Shane O'Brien says farming sectors have been shaped by regional advantages, commodity prices, and climatic factors.

He says some people have waited for the market to hit it's straps, which it's doing now.