Tenant rights in New Zealand — the complete guide

The landlord must not interfere with your use of the property

You have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property — meaning the landlord cannot harass you, make frequent or unnecessary visits, interfere with your utilities, or otherwise disrupt your reasonable use of the property. This is one of the most fundamental tenant rights in the Act.

Breach of quiet enjoyment can result in exemplary damages of up to $2,000 per incident from the Tenancy Tribunal.

Landlords must maintain the property

Your landlord must provide and maintain the premises in a reasonable state of repair. The property must also comply with the Healthy Homes Standards — minimum heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture control, and draught stopping requirements.

Landlord cannot enter without notice (Section 48)

• Inspections: 24 hours written notice, between 8am–7pm, maximum once per 4 weeks
• Repairs: 24 hours written notice
• Viewings: 48 hours written notice
• Emergencies: entry without notice permitted

Challenge an excessive rent increase

If you receive a rent increase notice and believe the new rent is excessive compared to market rent, you can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal within 12 working days of receiving the notice. The Tribunal will compare the proposed rent to similar properties in the area.

Landlord must provide a written agreement

The landlord must ensure the tenancy agreement is in writing before (or as soon as practicable after) the tenancy begins, and must give you a copy. The agreement cannot include prohibited provisions — such as requiring more than 4 weeks bond, restricting your right to have guests, or waiving any rights under the Act.

Your bond must be lodged with Tenancy Services

The landlord must lodge your bond with Tenancy Services within 23 working days of receiving it. The bond is held independently and can only be claimed by the landlord for unpaid rent, damage beyond fair wear and tear, or cleaning costs.

Free, accessible dispute resolution

Either party can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to resolve disputes. The Tribunal can hear cases about rent arrears, property damage, bond, unlawful entry, harassment, repairs, and termination. You do not need a lawyer to appear at the Tribunal.

Apply online at tenancy.govt.nz

Human Rights Act protections

A landlord cannot refuse to rent to you, or treat you differently, on the grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or family status (including having children). Discrimination in tenancy is prohibited under both the RTA and the Human Rights Act 1993.