When Rupi Sekhon arrived in New Zealand as a young girl in 2003, she brought with her the quiet strength of her Punjabi upbringing and the hopes of a reunited family. Two decades on, she stands among South Auckland’s top-performing real estate professionals — a trusted name for families, migrants, and first-home buyers.
“I’ve worked around the clock — 24/7, without looking at the clock or worrying about how many hours I’ve done,” she says.
“There were days I worked well beyond 12 hours because I love what I do and I’m committed to giving my clients my all.”
Rupi currently holds the title of Top Salesperson at Barfoot & Thompson’s Manukau branch to the end of March 2025, is the Top Salesperson for the six months ending September 2024, and is ranked among the Top 10 Individual Salespersons in the South Auckland Region. These accolades, achieved in just over a year of being independently licensed, reflect a deep commitment to service and a relentless work ethic.
Raised by her grandparents in Kaloundi, a small village in Punjab’s Fatehgarh Sahib district, Rupi moved to New Zealand in 2003 to join her father, who had been working here since 1989.
“As a migrant, you don’t always have those networks built in — you have to create them from scratch.”
Rupi’s parents and brother supported her in achieving the highest level of education in New Zealand.
“I hold a Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc) from Auckland University of Technology and a Postgraduate Diploma in International Security from Otago University – while working as a Customs Officer,” she shares with The Indian Weekender.
Her real estate journey began informally in 2016, assisting her husband Gurjeet Sekhon, a high-performing agent. Observing him in action lit the spark.
“Watching him work so passionately and tirelessly — always putting his clients, friends, and family first — truly left a mark on me,” she says.
“That’s what sparked my interest, and that’s what continues to drive me every day.”
She gained her licence just over a year ago but brings over two years of hands-on experience.
“I began by learning from experience — observing Gurjeet and understanding how he navigated market changes, buyer behaviour, and pricing strategies.”
Rupi combined that with data analysis, attended open homes and auctions, and went on to earn her qualification.
Balancing motherhood and a demanding career hasn’t been easy. Rupi, a mother of three, credits her success to the unwavering support of her family.
“My mother-in-law manages the household so I can focus on my career without worry, and my father-in-law helps care for the kids, handling school pickups and drop-offs. They constantly remind me, ‘Don’t worry about anything — we’re here for you 24/7.’”
And Gurjeet remains her strongest pillar.
“He’s not only my biggest cheerleader but also my best friend,” she says.
Despite the industry recognition, Rupi remains humble. She sees awards not just as achievements but as responsibilities.
Her migrant background deeply influences her work, especially with clients from similar journeys. She urges young migrants to prioritise ethics over shortcuts.
Rupi’s advice is clear: always maintain strong principles and don’t chase deals without integrity.
She says she doesn’t chase “flashy dreams” but feels grateful for her life and career.
“I already feel incredibly blessed and grateful for what I have — a beautiful family, three amazing children, healthy in-laws living together under one roof, and a career I truly love.”
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