How to Find Rental Properties That Allow Pets in Tauranga

Tauranga is one of the most desirable places to live in Aotearoa. However, for pet owners, finding a home can feel more like an uphill climb than a coastal breeze. Rental properties that allow pets in Tauranga remain in short supply, despite growing demand. As more households welcome cats, dogs, and other animals into their lives, the need for flexible and pet-accommodating tenancies is more relevant than ever.

At Staircase, we’ve seen first-hand how both tenants and landlords are adjusting to this shift. So what’s the current reality, and how can both sides adapt? Understanding the rules, being proactive, and setting clear expectations can make all the difference.

Why are pet-friendly rentals still hard to find?

Many landlords hesitate to allow animals in their properties, and their reasons tend to be consistent across the board:

• Damage to property: Pets can scratch wooden floors, chew furniture, soil carpets, or leave behind lingering odours that are costly to fix.

• Noise complaints: Barking, howling, or pets causing disruption may lead to disputes with neighbours or body corporates.

• Health concerns: Allergens and dander can remain embedded in curtains or ventilation systems, posing challenges for future tenants with allergies or sensitivities.

While the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 governs rental relationships in New Zealand, it does not provide a standard clause for pets. Instead, landlords retain the right to approve or decline animals, but this discretion must be reasonable. Tribunal decisions have shown that blanket bans may not always hold up, particularly if they breach tenants’ rights or go beyond what the law allows.

In practical terms, rental properties that allow pets in Tauranga are not entirely out of reach, but they do require patience, preparation, and a good understanding of tenancy law.

What are the new rules around pets and tenancies?

Significant changes are coming under the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024, with many provisions expected to take effect nationwide by late 2025. These changes aim to strike a fair balance between tenant rights and landlord protection. Key updates include:

• Written consent is required before bringing a pet into a rental home.

• Refusals must be based on reasonable grounds such as local bylaws, unsuitable property type, or safety risks.

• Pet bonds of up to two weeks’ rent may be charged on top of the regular bond.

• Tenants remain liable for damage beyond fair wear and tear caused by pets.

These changes apply to all regions, including Tauranga, and will help clarify expectations around pets in rental properties going forward. Existing tenancies are unaffected unless changes are agreed upon in writing.

Tauranga-specific rules: What the local council says

While tenancy law is nationwide, local bylaws also influence what pets can be kept and under what conditions. Tauranga City Council’s Keeping of Animals Bylaw 2018 outlines specific rules around the number, type, and management of animals in residential areas.

For example:

• Roosters are prohibited in most residential zones due to noise concerns.

• Bees, poultry, and livestock are restricted based on section size and zoning.

• In some cases, pet owners may require consent from the council or their body corporate.

This means that even if a landlord is happy to allow pets, restrictions under local law might still apply. Therefore, both parties should check the bylaw and, if needed, seek advice before including animals in a tenancy agreement.

How to secure rental properties that allow pets in Tauranga

Tenants hoping to live with their pets should approach the rental search with a solid plan. Here are key strategies that can increase your chances of finding a pet-allowed rental in Tauranga:

Start your search early

Pet-friendly homes are limited and often get snapped up quickly. Use filters on property sites and notify agents of your specific needs.

Build a pet CV

Include vet records, vaccination history, proof of registration, and references from previous landlords or pet sitters. This demonstrates that your animal is well-cared for and unlikely to cause problems.

Offer added security

While the pet bond law is pending, you may still propose to pay for extra cleaning or cover damages as a gesture of goodwill.

Agree to conditions

Some landlords may only allow pets if certain terms are met, such as keeping the animal outside, regular flea treatment, or limiting access to specific areas of the house. 

Showing responsibility and willingness to meet halfway can go a long way toward approval.

Why more landlords in Tauranga should consider allowing pets

Landlords may be missing an opportunity by excluding pet owners. With rental demand in Tauranga remaining strong, accepting pets can lead to several advantages:

• A broader tenant pool: Many prospective renters are families or professionals with animals.

• Longer tenancies: Tenants with pets are more likely to stay in a home where they and their animals feel welcome.

• Improved tenant relationships: Allowing pets often results in more open and honest communication.

However, the agreement should always include details such as:

• The number and type of animals permitted

• Where pets are allowed within the property

• Cleaning and repair responsibilities

• Clauses around introducing additional pets later

Having this information documented in the tenancy agreement protects both landlord and tenant. For landlords reviewing their responsibilities, this guide on Healthy Homes compliance outlines key standards that also support pet-friendly living.

Tribunal case example: When conditions are ignored

A recent Tenancy Tribunal decision involved a dog causing significant damage to a rental carpet after the tenant failed to follow agreed conditions. The Tribunal ruled in favour of the landlord, stating the damage went beyond fair wear and tear.

Read the full case breakdown here: Pet Damage Rental Property Tribunal Ruling

Final thoughts on renting with pets in Tauranga

While rental properties that allow pets in Tauranga are still a minority, change is happening. More landlords are embracing the idea of pets allowed rentals, especially as legal reforms and tenant expectations evolve. For tenants, it is crucial to be transparent, respectful, and prepared.

For landlords, being pet-friendly within reasonable and legal limits can make your property more attractive and keep tenants happy for the long term.

If you want to learn how tenants, landlords, and property management companies are adapting to pet-friendly rentals, Staircase Tauranga property management is a great place to start.

Frequently asked questions

Can landlords in Tauranga refuse pets in rental properties?

Yes, landlords can decline pets, but refusals must be reasonable. Local council bylaws and property suitability may also factor in. It’s best to ask and get written approval.

Are pet-friendly rentals common in Tauranga?

Pet-friendly rentals exist in Tauranga but remain limited. Demand often outweighs supply, so start your search early and be prepared. A good pet profile can improve your chances.

What rules apply to pets in Tauranga rental homes?

Tauranga follows national tenancy laws plus local animal bylaws. Restrictions may apply to certain animals, noise, or the number of pets allowed. Always check your tenancy agreement and council rules.

Can landlords charge extra bond for pets in Tauranga?

As of now, no extra pet bond is allowed. However, upcoming law changes may permit a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent by late 2025. Stay updated with the latest rules.

Do I need council approval for pets in my Tauranga rental?

It depends on the type and number of pets. Tauranga City Council restricts some animals like roosters or livestock in residential zones. Check the Keeping of Animals Bylaw for details.