The Government has confirmed that from 1 December 2025, changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will give tenants greater ability to keep pets in rental properties.
Under the new legislation, tenants will still need to obtain the landlord’s consent before keeping a pet. However, landlords will only be able to withhold consent on reasonable grounds. To help landlords manage potential risks, they will be permitted to require a separate pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard tenancy bond.
The reforms also clarify that tenants will be responsible for any damage caused by pets beyond fair wear and tear.
The Government says the changes are intended to make it easier for tenants with pets to find housing, while providing landlords with financial protection against potential damage.
About 64% of New Zealand households have at least one pet, and pet ownership is a common reason many tenants struggle to secure a rental property.
“These reforms are a win-win for tenants and landlords and are a pawsitive step forward,” Housing Minister Chris Bishop said.
Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour says that the policy will fix the problem of tenants being locked out of rental markets due to landlords not being willing to take a risk on tenants with pets.
“There are tenants out there to whom what matters is being able to live in their preferred home with their very good boy,” Seymour says.
“More landlords would be willing to allow pets if they could protect themselves from some of the risks.
“This policy is also important for helping victims of domestic abuse move on with their lives. Often, people stay in relationships to look after pets and become stuck. Helping these people find rentals that are accepting of pets will allow them to move on safely and have a brighter future.”
The new rules include that:
- Tenants must have the landlord’s consent to keep a pet but landlords can only withhold consent on reasonable grounds.
- Landlords may require a pet bond up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general tenancy bond.
- Tenants will now be liable for all pet damage to properties beyond fair wear and tear
- Tenancy Services will enable lodgement, top-ups and refunds of pet bonds and will provide updated guidance and forms ahead of commencement.
