Appleby returns to Colliers’ West Auckland team
James Appleby has returned to Colliers as a director in the West Auckland office.
The experienced property professional worked for Colliers from 2016-22.
He transacted a number of large-scale land deals with a focus on development sites, as well as investment properties and industrial assets.
His return to the West Auckland office comes on the heels of Nelson Raines taking over as the new general manager, following Josh Coburn’s move to the Capital Markets team in Auckland CBD.
Appleby, who lives in the West Auckland suburb of Titirangi, says the ongoing growth of the area means it is one of the most dynamic regions in the Auckland property market.
“For approximately eight of the 10 years I have worked in the commercial property sector I have been based in West Auckland and it has been remarkable to watch the area change and develop,” Appleby says.
“The expansion of suburbs such as Hobsonville Point has contributed to a property boom and these residential catchments are now supported by major commercial developments, evidenced through additions such as new shopping malls, commercial occupiers, and the arrival of Costco.
“Key infrastructure improvements continue to pay dividends with the likes of the Waterview Tunnel completely opening up the area and improving efficiency for industrial and commercial businesses which have greater access to other areas of Auckland.”
West Auckland has pockets of land that are primed for intensification in the coming years that will accommodate further business expansion opportunities.
During his career, Appleby has developed an ability to negotiate complex transactions, which takes the right mix of expertise, knowledge and relationship management.
“Many of the land transactions I have brokered have included multiple layers and have required strategic thinking and strong engagement with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we can deliver the best results for our clients.”
Raines, who began his new role in September, says it’s pleasing to have an experienced and skilled commercial broker such as Appleby rejoin the team.
“We have an excellent foundation of talent in our team, and we are ecstatic that James has rejoined us,” Raines says.
“Our brokers are deeply committed to the West Auckland region and know their geography well.
“We look forward to seeing how this area of the city will continue to take shape and we will strive to provide our clients with the best advice and service in the market as the welldocumented growth of West Auckland continues.”
Charles Cooper, Auckland managing director at Colliers, says the recruitment of Appleby is a highly strategic appointment.
“Having an experienced broker like James return to Colliers underscores the commitment of our organisation to the West Auckland region.
“The area is a key piece of our Aucklandwide strategy to provide a comprehensive suite of professional services for our valued clients.”