How to Rent a Home in New Zealand

Navigating the process of renting a home in New Zealand for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made New Zealand their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience, and one of the first tasks you'll need to tackle is finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to New Zealand, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment, from finding a rental property to understanding the legal requirements and costs involved.

How do you find a rental property in New Zealand?

There are several ways to find rental properties in New Zealand. Online property search websites like Trade Me Property, realestate.co.nz, and nzflatmates are popular platforms where landlords and real estate agents list available properties. Local newspapers also have rental listings in their classified sections. Additionally, you can engage a real estate agent to help you find a suitable property based on your preferences and budget.

Does New Zealand have an MLS type system?

New Zealand does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. Instead, each real estate agency maintains its own database of properties. However, most of these listings are aggregated on the aforementioned online property search websites, making it easier for prospective tenants to find available rentals.

Do brokers have licenses and how do I know if they are licensed?

Yes, real estate agents in New Zealand must be licensed by the Real Estate Agents Authority (REAA). You can verify an agent's license by checking the public register on the REAA's website. It's important to ensure that you're dealing with a licensed agent to protect your rights and interests.

Should I buy or rent in New Zealand?

The decision to buy or rent depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. Renting can be a more flexible and less financially burdensome option, especially if you're new to the country or planning to stay for a short period. On the other hand, buying a property can be a good investment if you plan to settle in New Zealand long-term.

Is it difficult to find rentals in New Zealand?

The ease of finding rentals in New Zealand can vary depending on the location and time of the year. In major cities like Auckland and Wellington, the rental market can be quite competitive, especially at the start of the university year. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, you may find more options and less competition.

What documents are required when renting an apartment in New Zealand?

When applying for a rental property in New Zealand, you'll typically need to provide proof of identity (such as a passport), proof of income (like pay slips or a job contract), and references (from previous landlords or employers). Some landlords or agents may also require a credit check.

Do I need a lawyer when renting an apartment in New Zealand?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in New Zealand, it can be beneficial to seek legal advice, especially if you're unfamiliar with New Zealand's tenancy laws. A lawyer can review the tenancy agreement to ensure your rights are protected. The cost for this service can vary, but you can expect to pay around NZD $200-300.

How long is the typical lease for?

The typical lease term in New Zealand is 12 months, but it can range from six months to several years. Some landlords also offer periodic or month-to-month leases, which provide more flexibility.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, it's standard practice in New Zealand to pay a bond (deposit) when renting a property. The bond is usually equivalent to four weeks' rent and is held by the Tenancy Services to cover any unpaid rent, damages, or other costs at the end of the tenancy.

What other upfront costs are there when renting?

Besides the bond, you may also need to pay the first week's rent in advance. Some landlords or agents may also charge a letting fee, which can be up to one week's rent plus GST. However, this practice is becoming less common due to recent changes in tenancy laws.

Are utilities included?

Utilities are typically not included in the rent in New Zealand. Tenants are usually responsible for setting up and paying for their own utilities, including electricity, gas, water, and internet. The cost of utilities can vary, but you can expect to pay around NZD $150-200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Are furnished or unfurnished rentals more popular in New Zealand?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in New Zealand, but unfurnished properties are more common. A furnished rental usually includes basic furniture and appliances, such as a bed, sofa, dining table, refrigerator, and washing machine. An unfurnished rental, on the other hand, typically only includes a stove and sometimes a dishwasher or fridge. It's important to check what's included in the rental before signing the lease," said one expat living in New Zealand.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"We have a 3 bedroom home on about a half acre with mature trees and great views. Most homes have 4 bedrooms, but are smaller and on less land," said one expat living in Dunedin, Otago - South Island NZ.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"We chose to rent a furnished house in a beach-side community (aren't most of them anyway?). We drove around New Zealand for seven weeks and found a spot we liked. We bought a local newspaper and looked at about 10 houses from the rental ads and chose one in Snells Beach. That is 10 kms from Warkworth, which in turn is about one hour north of Auckland," commented an expat living in Warkworth.

"Found a great real estate lady who listened and then worked really hard to find our home! Chose our home for the views, close to town and is on the peninsula," said an expat in Dunedin, Otago - South Island NZ.

"One way to find a place to live in New Zealand is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Trade Me, NZ Flatmates, and Rent.co.nz are popular resources for finding rental properties. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents in the area you are interested in to inquire about available properties. You can also look for rental listings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in supermarkets and other public places. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in New Zealand if they know of any available properties," remarked one expat who made the move to New Zealand.