The changes introduced during 2025 are now in force. Pet rules commenced on 1 December 2025, and meth contamination regulations followed on 16 April 2026. If you own or rent a home in Silverdale or the Hibiscus Coast, check which rules apply to your tenancy before giving notice, agreeing to a pet or arranging testing.
Since 30 January 2025, tenants can generally end a periodic tenancy with 21 days’ written notice. Landlords can give 90 days’ notice without stating a reason, or 42 days for specified grounds when the relevant conditions are met. Retaliatory termination remains unlawful.
Fixed-term tenancies generally become periodic unless either party gives notice between 90 and 21 days before the end date, or the parties agree another arrangement. These are different processes from ending a fixed term early. Check the tenancy type, dates, grounds and service requirements in Tenancy Services’ ending-a-tenancy guidance.
For a new pet covered by the rules from 1 December 2025, tenants request consent and landlords must respond in writing within 21 calendar days. A refusal needs reasonable grounds. An approval may include reasonable conditions, including a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent.
There are different rules for pets already approved before that date, and exemptions for disability assist dogs. Do not assume that a new bond can be charged for an existing approved pet. Tenants should describe the animal and how the property will suit it; landlords should record their decision and any conditions. Read the full pet rules and the request and response process.
The technical changes from 20 March 2025 include updated rules for serving documents electronically and using email as an address for service. A clause prohibiting smoking indoors can be enforced. Keep current contact details and written records; an informal conversation does not replace a required written notice. See the technical changes explained by Tenancy Services.
The 2026 meth regulations set separate contamination and habitability thresholds, along with testing and cleanup requirements. Our meth guidance explains the distinction and links to the current rules. Healthy homes obligations are a separate part of managing a rental: check heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, and draught stopping against the standards that apply to the property.
Read the linked public resources first, then contact our property management team about your rental using the form below. You can also call 09 309 6868 or email silverdale.nz@raywhite.com. If a notice or dispute turns on the facts of your tenancy, get advice before acting.
Guidance checked 14 October 2026. Tenancy Services’ law-change summary provides the commencement dates and current detail.