How to Buy a Piano in Cambridge, New Zealand: A Beginner to Intermediate Guide
Thinking about buying your first or next piano?
This simple guide is designed specifically for beginner to intermediate players living in NZ, who want a clear, stress-free way to find the right instrument.
Whether you’re starting lessons, picking up piano again after a break, or upgrading from a basic keyboard, there are plenty of great options available locally — if you know where to look.
Here’s your easy, practical guide to finding the best pianos for sale in Cambridge.
Decide What Type of Piano You Need
Before you dive into listings, think about the type of piano that suits your needs and skill level:
- Digital pianos are often ideal for beginners. They’re affordable, require no tuning, and fit easily into smaller spaces.
- Upright pianos are perfect for those ready to invest in a richer, more authentic sound, but they do require more care and space. This is the piano I will be focusing on today
- Grand pianos are, of course, the most beautiful-sounding and high-quality pianos. As this is a guide to finding your first piano, we will not be looking at any of these, unfortunately.
Where to Find Pianos for Sale in Cambridge, NZ
1. Facebook Marketplace and Trade Me – Upright pianos
Facebook Marketplace is an excellent resource for secondhand pianos, Trade Me is also decent, but not quite as cheap.
It’s common to find pianos listed by private sellers in nearby towns. Many deals are very affordable, there are so many old pianos that are sitting in lounges and garages that haven’t been touched in years.
In my experience you should expect at least 3-5 upright pianos in the nearby area (provided somewhere decently populated) that are available for $200 or less, a lot of the time free.
Most of these free pianos will be damaged and will require some maintenance.
- Out of tune – I’m sure most people know what an out of tune piano means but if you don’t, you can look here to learn what it is and how to fix it, it is very common for secondhand pianos to be way out of tune. Not only when you first buy it, but every few years afterwards
- Keys falling off – Another common issue is that the black keys fall off the piano now and then. This is an easy fix with a bit of glue.
- Keys getting stuck or rubbing together – Sometimes with time or changes in temperature, with the piano not being stored properly, the wood swells or breaks, and this definitely can catch you if you don’t check all the high and low keys, as there may be nothing visually wrong.
Don’t Forget Local Music Shops and Technicians
While online marketplaces offer lots of choice, don’t overlook local music stores or piano technicians around your local area.
Some music shops stock secondhand instruments or can order them for you. Piano tuners and movers also often know about private sales not listed online, and can offer valuable advice on what to look for.
How to move a Upright piano
Moving a Upright piano yourself – To move a piano yourself 3-4 strong people are usually necessary; you can do with as low as two, but any obstacles (stairs, doors) might get a bit difficult.
If you can’t move it yourself and can’t get help – hire a mover.
Pianos are heavy and delicate — using a specialist ensures they arrive safely without damage.
Final Thoughts
Buying your first or next piano is an exciting step, and Cambridge is a great place to start.
Between Trade Me, Facebook Marketplace, and local music shops, there’s no shortage of pianos for sale in Cambridge for beginners and intermediate players alike.
Take your time, trust your instincts, and soon you’ll be making music on a piano that feels just right for you.
Book piano lessons now in Waikato
If you are interested and you’re located in Cambridge, Hamilton or Te Awamutu, feel free to have a look at my home page or book now using the link below.