How Build to Rent is Transforming Housing in New Zealand

In recent years, a housing revolution has quietly begun to reshape the way renting households live in New Zealand. The concept of "build to rent", long established in other countries,  has emerged as a powerful solution to the challenges faced by renting households in this country. But what does the term mean? And why is it better?

Understanding Build to Rent

Build to rent, often abbreviated as BTR, refers to a housing development model where homes are designed and constructed specifically for rental, not for sale. BTR has become a buzzword in the property sector, but that term doesn't tell the whole story. BTR describes the process, but not the outcome for renting households.

New Ground Living was New Zealand’s first specialist institutional build to rent provider. We’ve been originating, developing, and managing modern, healthy rental home developments since 2014. Our communities are designed from the ground up with renting households in mind. No two projects are the same but there are some things you can expect from a home in any New Ground Living managed community.

Tenure Security

Compared to the short timeframe of traditional rental agreements, New Ground Living communities offer longer fixed lease terms of up to 10 years, providing the peace of mind that comes from security of tenure. However, if customers’ plans change, they can still end the lease with a notice period of 56 days .

The longer tenancies give renting households peace of mind, knowing that they have a stable home for an extended period. It allows families to establish roots and build stronger connections which in turn builds community.

Pet friendly

Nearly two-thirds of Kiwi households have at least one companion animal [Companion Animals in New Zealand 2020 Report] but finding a pet-friendly rental in NZ can be incredibly difficult. In Auckland, only 14.8% of listed rental properties allowed pets in January 2023, according to Barfoot and Thompson.

New Ground Living residents can bring pets (with prior approval), and, in fact, 56% do. We know that pets are family too and they become part of the New Ground Living community. 

Professional Community Management

New Ground Living customers are supported by Community Managers who strive to create a hassle-free living experience for renting households, allowing them to focus on enjoying their homes without the burden of managing property-related concerns.

A Community Manager is usually the first person new residents meet at a New Ground Living community. They ensure that maintenance issues are promptly addressed, security is maintained, communal spaces are well-kept, and are available to discuss personal touches residents may want to make. Most of all, they are there to help residents feel at home, and to connect with their neighbours and the wider community.

Affordability

We work hard to keep home expenses down, with our most recent communities offered bundled utility bills, solar electricity generation, centralised hot water and energy-efficient homes.

Quality Living Spaces

New Ground Living homes are purposefully designed to meet the needs and preferences of modern renting households. These spaces generally boast high-quality amenities, energy-efficient appliances, and innovative design features. Residents can enjoy comfortable living spaces, communal areas, and recreational facilities, fostering a sense of community and enhancing their overall quality of life. With a focus on sustainability and being as economical as possible, we are also building to high environmental standards. Of the 50 new homes we recently delivered for Hāpai Housing at Moroki in Glen Innes for instance, 48 achieved Homestar 7 certification and two even achieved Homestar 8 certification, meaning that these homes are super-efficient to live in.

A transformative shift in the rental market for New Zealanders

Given New Zealand's housing challenges, including rising property prices and housing shortages, the New Ground Living model offers a sustainable solution. By encouraging the construction of purpose-built rental homes, the country can significantly enhance housing affordability and availability for its residents.

This model aligns with the new government's support for more secure, long-term rental options, and offers renting households in New Zealand a reliable and attractive housing solution. By embracing this innovative approach, the country can pave the way for a more secure, affordable, and inclusive housing landscape, ensuring that every New Zealander has access to a place they can truly call home.