Planning a holiday that’s longer than 21 days? If you’re a private landlord, failing to appoint a representative before leaving could lead to fines. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you're compliant before heading overseas.

When Can Landlords Be Fined for Travel?

Landlords who don’t appoint a New Zealand-based representative for holidays longer than 21 consecutive days may face fines of up to $1,500. It’s a legal requirement under the Residential Tenancies Act to have someone manage your property in your absence.

What You Need to Do Before You Leave:

Appoint a Representative – Choose someone trustworthy and based in New Zealand.
Notify Your Tenants – Let them know you’re going away and provide your representative’s contact details.
Inform the Bond Centre – If your tenant's bond is held at the bond centre, notify them of the change in representation. Don’t forget to update this when you return.

Choosing the Right Representative

Your representative will have the same rights and responsibilities as you do, so it’s important to pick someone reliable. They’ll need to handle emergencies and day-to-day property management while you’re away.

How Property Managers Can Help

If you already work with a property manager, they can act as your representative. If you don’t, and are planning an extended trip, it might be worth hiring one. Managing a rental property can be a big responsibility for a friend or family member, especially if they’re not being compensated.