Rental Properties That Allow Pets in Queenstown: Your Guide

Renting with pets in New Zealand, especially in tourist hubs like Queenstown, can bring great challenges, and while such pet-friendly tenancies are high in demand, they are limited in supply. Nevertheless, with the right approach and information, finding rental properties that allow pets is possible.

Key takeaways

• Landlords typically exclude pets in their rentals due to potential damage, noise complaints, and health concerns

• The 1986 RTA leaves discretion to landlords whether or not to implement a pet ban, but it is not always enforceable

• As tenants, search for pet-allowed rentals early and create a responsible impression to landlords

• Landlords can identify legal remedies like crafting precise tenancy agreements or introducing a situation to the Tribunal

  
  

Why do many rentals exclude pets?

Landlords often have concerns about:

• Property damage. Pets can cause damage to floors, gardens, and furniture, which increases repair and maintenance costs. Some of the landlords’ common problems include scratches, stains and odors, chewed corners, and dander buildup.

• Noise complaints. Dogs that bark frequently or pets that roam around can disturb neighbors, leading to potential conflicts among the body corporates or bring up Tribunal orders.

• Allergies and hygiene concerns. Allergens can linger in ventilation systems or carpets, which can trigger allergies and medical sensitivities of present and future tenants.

The New Zealand Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) 1986 currently does not mention standard pet clauses, except for boarding houses where pets are prohibited unless permitted by the landlord. 

However, despite most rentals excluding pets, recent Tenancy Tribunal decisions show that pet bans may not always be enforceable, especially if the conditions that are obliged on the tenant go beyond the RTA. Furthermore, trends are now shifting, making pet-allowed rentals increasingly marketable over time, more so for long-term residents, families, and pet-loving communities.

A recent example of how the Tribunal can create case-to-case implementation of decisions is a case from Hobsonsville. While an agreement was set on the tenant’s responsibilities, such as maintaining hygiene and cleanliness and that his dog remains on the bottom floor, these conditions were not kept to a reasonable standard. 

The dog was able to roam around the entire property and pee on the rental’s new carpet 40 times. Therefore, the Tribunal found the damage to be conditions beyond wear and tear, which meant a compensation claim for the landlord.

How do I get approved for pet-friendly rentals?

Consider these steps when planning to secure permission for bringing your pets in:

• Start your search early. Focus on property listings that openly allow pets.

• Create a pet resume or profile. Include vet records, training certifications, registration information, and references from previous property managers and dog walkers to make a credible impression.

• Offer a pet bond or maintenance fees. This highlights a sense of responsibility over your pets and gives landlords extra security in case of damage.

• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness. Make sure your pets are groomed and trained to avoid disturbance and other potential complaints on the property.

Being proactive and respectful can help you lock in a pet-allowed rental in no time. 

Are there pet-friendly rentals in Queenstown?

Yes, however, they are limited and get snapped up fast. In order to rent in a competitive market, it is essential to always monitor listings with your specific demand and work with property managers who understand the mechanics of bringing your pets in. 

Landlord considerations on pets in rental properties

When planning to rent out a property, landlords must also keep in mind the following in terms of pets:

• A pet ban is not automatic under the law. The RTA 1986 does not have a pet clause that gives total discretion to landlords over whether or not they can enforce a ban. In some Tenancy Tribunal verdicts, some no-pets policies were not able to hold up for long.

• You can allow pets and set conditions. Impose reasonable conditions to be mutually agreed upon by the tenant and landlord that shall limit noise or damage in the property.

• Tenancy agreements cannot go beyond the law. Landlords must keep in check that the said conditions they enforce are not higher than the requirements of the RTA. Seek expert advice to ensure clauses are legally enforceable.

• Mention the important details in the tenancy agreement. Do not forget to also include in the agreement the type and number of pets allowed, conditions if the tenant wants to add or replace a pet, and clear responsibilities for pet-related damages.

Opening doors to pet-friendly rentals in Queenstown

Finding rental properties that allow pets in Queenstown or anywhere in New Zealand requires extra patience and effort, but it is far from impossible—especially as lifestyle trends begin to shift. As long as you know how to offer solutions and show responsibility as a pet owner, you can increase your chances of securing a home for you and your furry companion.

Ready to find rental properties that allow pets in Queenstown? Contact our team today. We’ll help you secure a pet-friendly home that fits your lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

Can tenants have pets without permission?

No, you must request permission and inform your landlords before bringing pets. Otherwise, having a pet without an established agreement may result in a 14-day notice to remedy or even termination of tenancy through the Tenancy Tribunal.

Can landlords charge a “pet bond” in New Zealand like in other countries?

Yes. Starting late 2025, landlords can charge a “pet bond” which can be up to a value of two weeks’ rent in addition to the regular rental bond. This change is due to the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act introduced in 2024.

Can service animals be denied tenancy?

No, it is illegal to decline a tenant for having service animals. Under the Human Rights Act, people cannot be discriminated against due to disability, including those who need disability assistance dogs. Landlords also cannot charge a pet bond because service animals are considered working and are protected under the law.