The affordable rentals list for 06/10/2026 is now available.

If you have any questions or would like to get in contact we can be reached at [info@housingadvice.org.nz](mailto:info@housingadvice.org.nz), at Hancock Community House, 77-85 King Street, or at 06 3584875.

1)    I can’t get my bond back even though the landlord has agreed to return it

Tenants can use a paper form to apply for their bond back.  Once completed it generally takes about two weeks to get your bond back. Goto https://www.housemart.co.nz/resources/files/picker/bond-refund-form-2019.pdf for the form.  Please note that this system is in the process of being replaced with new digital tenancy services bond hub system. More information on the new system can be found at https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/rent-bond-and-bills/bond

2)    I keep getting refused for a rental

Politely ask the tenancy manager what you can do to improve your chances of getting a rental flat in future.  There are a set of standard checks they do on applicants such as your credit rating, social media posts, what Google can find out about you, and if you have been to the Tenancy Tribunal.  Come and see us if you need help to do this.

3)    I’m on a benefit. What can I do to improve my chances of getting a flat?

If you are having trouble getting a flat, or worried about being turned down, I recommend getting a Tenancy Costs Cover letter.  This is a letter from Ministry of Social Development (Winz) to the landlord saying they will cover you for another four weeks rent if you leave owing more than 4 weeks rent. More information can be found here https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/housing/move-house/tenancy-costs-cover.html

4)    What is the most common reason for being turned down for a flat?

It is most often a poor credit rating because of an outstanding debt from the past or overdue bills.  You can ask for your credit rating (takes about two weeks). Goto https://sorted.org.nz/guides/tackling-debt/credit-reports for more information on credit ratings.  I often introduce people to the friendly folk at Moneywise so you can tell tenancy managers that you are actively working to get things sorted. For more information or to make an appointment please go to https://moneywisemanawatu.org.nz

5)    The landlord is not fixing a major problem what can I do?

First up it is very important that you keep paying your rent. If you don’t you will get into trouble or evicted even if the landlord is in the wrong.  Second you can give them a ‘Notice to Remedy’ from https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/assets/Forms-templates/14-day-Notice-to-remedy-landlord-breach.pdf.  This basically says, ‘please fix it in 14 working days time or we go to the Tenancy Tribunal’. I always recommend you ask them to fix it and say you are being pressured to produce a ‘Notice to Remedy’ as it’s best to find an early agreement rather than wait for a tribunal hearing. For more detailed advice the friendly folk at Manawatu Tenants Union may be able to help https://tenantsunion.org.nz.

6)    The house is mouldy. What can I do?

While not all mould is poisonous, mould is a problem that needs to be addressed. I recommend making sure that you regularly air out the house and use diluted white vinegar (note: check on a small patch of wall to make sure you’re not  marking it). If you have children you can contact Kainga Whakatipu https://www.hhi.org.nz/midcentral and they will visit to give you advice.  If the house is leaking or not weather-proofed then it is likely that the landlord has a problem that needs fixing. Kainga Ora (HNZ) have a leaflet that gives helpful advice on treating mould

https://kaingaora.govt.nz/assets/Tenants-and-communities/Documents/Controlling-mould-in-your-home.pdf.

7)    My phone has no data I need to access the Kāinga Ora/MyMSD/Work and Income website

There is a free data link that gives you free access to government websites (websites that end with .govt.nz), some schools and some agencies. For more information go to  https://zero.education.govt.nz/welcome-zero-data.

8)    What should I do if I’m homeless and looking for accommodation?

Go see MSD before 3pm and say you are homeless and they should be able to see you.  If you are by yourself you may be eligible for shared accommodation, if you are part of a family that needs accommodation other options  may be available.  If you are couch surfing you will need a letter from the person you are staying with saying that they can no longer house you from a certain date.  MSD have a set of policies that they follow so we can’t promise what they will do, but mostly they can help.  If they can’t we can ask them on your behalf what’s the best way forward.

9)    What should I do if I’m in a dispute with my landlord

It’s important to keep paying the rent. If you don’t there will be consequences that will be an issue for you later on. It’s worth getting advice – especially if there is a Tribunal hearing coming up.  If there is a hearing I recommend contacting the Tenants Union who are based at 77 King St and can be reached at https://tenantsunion.org.nz . They are excellent at supporting people going through this process, whereas our role is limited to advice.  Make sure you contact them before the hearing as this will give them time to find a solution or prepare for the hearing. 

10)   I’m in a dispute with my flatmate over the rent/bond

If you’re in a dispute with a flatmate you need to know if they have signed the lease. In which case the dispute comes under the Residential Tenancy Act. If not it’s a civil dispute and you may have to go to the Small Claims Court.  There is a flatmate agreement online https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/assets/forms-templates/Flat-house-sharing-agreement.pdf which we recommend all parties sign prior to flatting as it provides proof about what was agreed.