Renting Guide

How long can a tenant have a guest stay in NZ?

A guide for landlords & tenants

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 10 July 2024 | 3 min read
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Tenants have a right to quiet enjoyment, which includes having guests. Landlords cannot legally add clauses to a tenancy agreement that ban guests or limit their stay.

However, a distinction exists between a guest and an occupant. While there's no set timeframe, a guest may become an occupant if they move in furniture, contribute to rent, or receive mail at the property.

If a guest becomes an unapproved occupant, landlords can issue a 14-day notice to remedy before applying to the Tenancy Tribunal.

Tenant guest policy in residential rentals

How long is too long?

When guests become occupants

It can be hard to know how long is too long.

What landlords can do

Rental property dispute? Help is available

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer