Rental prices easing nationally gives tenants breathing room

The national average weekly rent in June 2025 fell to $636 – down 2.7% from $653 in June 2024, according to realestate.co.nz. That translates to a modest but helpful easing in rental pressure for many Kiwi households.

In Wellington, renters experienced the strongest relief, with average weekly rents dropping 10.9% from $701 to $625. Hawke’s Bay also saw a noteworthy decline of 6.6% 

Not every region enjoyed relief, though. Rents climbed in southern regions, while West Coast rents jumped 9.1%, from $396 to $433. Otago recorded an 8.0% rise to $616, while Southland set a record high of $489 – a 6.1% increase year-on-year.

Better choices for renters

A bright spot in the data is the surge in new rental listings. June 2025 saw 6,120 fresh entries on the market – up 15.3% compared to the same month last year. The biggest increases came from Gisborne (96.0%), Hawke’s Bay (84.9%) and Wellington (82.2%), giving renters far more properties to choose from – and more bargaining power with landlords.

Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz said increased supply tended to keep prices “honest”, and with the Healthy Homes standards now in effect, renters can expect better-quality accommodation too.

What this means for you

For tenants, June’s dip in national rents – especially the substantial drops in the capital and Hawke’s Bay – could offer valuable savings. And with significantly more homes available to the market, renters have a stronger negotiating position. However if you’re looking in Southland, Otago or the West Coast, be aware that rents are rising, not falling.

Contact me if you’d like help understanding the rental market, exploring mortgage options or planning your move toward home ownership.