More than 1,700 pet bonds have been lodged with Tenancy Services since the pet bond system started on 1 December last year.
Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says the successful take-up shows that the changes to the system were striking the right balance with tenants.
“This is about giving renters a fair shot at keeping a pet, while making sure landlords have a clear and reliable process. It’s encouraging to see the system landing well and getting tails wagging,” Mr Potaka says.
Housing Minister Chris Bishop said the pet bond system was a practical way to make it easier for renters with pets to find a home, while giving landlords confidence there are clear protections in place.
“It’s a reform that is working as intended, without any ‘ruff’ edges,” he said.
Pet bonds can be lodged and managed through Tenancy Services, alongside the general bond, and are available where a landlord agrees to a tenant keeping a pet.
The pet bond rules include:
- 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 of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the existing general tenancy bond.
- Tenants are liable for all pet‑related damage to properties beyond fair wear and tear.
- Tenancy Services enables lodgment, top‑ups and refunds of pet bonds and provides updated guidance and forms.
“Our Government is focused on a rental market that works for everyone -young renters, whanau, and the people providing homes,” Mr Potaka says.
