RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES LAW CHANGES EFFECT ON LANDLORDS

New Zealand rental property owners discussing Residential Tenancies Act changes, tenancy agreements and landlord compliance obligations.

Residential tenancies law changes have arrived in waves since December 2024, and landlords now work under a very different rulebook from the one introduced in 2020. The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 brought back no-cause terminations and added pet rules. Later changes covered electronic notices, pet consent and meth contamination. This guide – updated in…

Read More

INVESTMENT PROPERTY AND LTCs: A GOOD MATCH?

investment property and LTCs: a good match?

    Investment property and LTCs: A good match? (Or as Shakespeare might have said “To LTC or not to LTC: that is the question(opens in new tab).”) For many years, property investors across New Zealand embraced Look-Through Companies (LTCs) as the structure of choice for holding rental properties. Accountants, lawyers, mortgage advisers, and investors…

Read More

TAX RETURN FAQ

NZ tax return FAQ illustration showing a kiwi bird reviewing a tax return with questions about tax deductions, work expenses, refund status, filing deadlines, and eligibility to claim expenses.

Q: Why do I need to complete a tax questionnaire  every year?
A: This is basically to cover your back. It proves that we and you have all asked/answered the right questions, if anyone ever asks. Could come in handy if you are trying to prove your innocence to IRD. 

Read More

RENTAL PROPERTY: WHAT RECORDS DO YOU NEED TO KEEP?

a NZ landlord with piles of receipts realises he needs to keep better records

What records do you need to keep for your rental* property? Here is a general guide. Note that this list assumes you are using a property manager.  All costs are for the 12 months preceding 31 March:​RENTAL PROPERTY Copy of Sale & Purchase Agreement (if 1st year)Total Rent ReceivedInsurances, e.g. Landlord Protection, Mortgage Protection, HouseLegal feesProperty Management fees (if applicable)Rates – water and CouncilMaintenance, including any purchases e.g. heat-pumpRubbis […]

Read More

CLOSING A COMPANY IN NEW ZEALAND

company incorporation

Closing a company in New Zealand is a process that involves careful planning, legal compliance, and coordination with government authorities. Whether your decision to close stems from completing the company’s purpose, financial difficulties, or a strategic shift, understanding the necessary steps is crucial. This guide – updated in October 2026 – provides a detailed roadmap…

Read More

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUSINESS STRUCTURES AND RECORD-KEEPING

want to buy property

The ultimate guide to business structures and record-keeping in New Zealand? Yes: you’ve come to the right place! Managing a business in New Zealand involves careful planning, choosing the right structure, and maintaining meticulous records. This guide explores the most common business structures in New Zealand and provides practical tips on record-keeping to ensure compliance…

Read More