Tenancy Tribunal NZ — How to File a Claim (2026)
About this article
Sourced from New Zealand Acts of Parliament (legislation.govt.nz), regulations, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Tenancy Tribunal resolves disputes between landlords and tenants quickly and cheaply — bond disputes, unpaid rent, repairs, unlawful actions and possession. Under section 77 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986, it can hear claims up to $100,000 (larger claims go to the District Court).
You apply online through Tenancy Services for a small filing fee. A mediator may try to settle it first; if not, an adjudicator holds a hearing and issues a binding order. Lawyers usually aren't involved at this level. The Tribunal can order a bond refund, rent reduction, repairs, compensation, or possession — and it can award exemplary damages against a landlord for serious breaches (like an unlawful eviction or failing to lodge a bond).
When does it apply?
- You have a tenancy dispute worth up to $100,000.
- Your landlord acted unlawfully (e.g. illegal eviction, not lodging the bond).
- Repairs, rent or bond issues can't be resolved directly.
What to do to file a Tenancy Tribunal claim
- Gather your evidence: tenancy agreement, photos, messages, rent records.
- Apply online via tenancy.govt.nz and pay the filing fee.
- Try mediation, then attend the hearing if it proceeds.
- Ask for exemplary damages where the landlord seriously breached the Act.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't take the law into your own hands — get a Tribunal order.
- Don't turn up without organised evidence.
- Don't exceed $100,000 unless you take the dispute to the District Court.
About Housing Rights in New Zealand
Renting in New Zealand is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (RTA), with the major 2024 amendments changing notice rules from 30 January 2025. Bonds (max 4 weeks' rent) are held by Tenancy Services, not the landlord. Most disputes go to the Tenancy Tribunal (up to $100,000). All private rentals must meet the Healthy Homes Standards (in force since 1 July 2025). Rent can rise only once every 12 months with 60 days' notice.
Tenancy Services: 0800 836 262. Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 367 222.
Common Questions
What is the filing a tenancy tribunal claim right in New Zealand?
The Tenancy Tribunal resolves disputes between landlords and tenants quickly and cheaply — bond disputes, unpaid rent, repairs, unlawful actions and possession. Under section 77 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986, it can hear claims up to $100,000 (larger claims go to the District Court).You apply online through Tenancy Services for a small filing fee. A mediator may try to settle it first; if not, an adjudicator holds a hearing and issues a binding order. Lawyers usually aren't involved at this level. The Tribunal can order a bond refund, rent reduction, repairs, compensation, or possessio...
When does it apply — filing a tenancy tribunal claim?
You have a tenancy dispute worth up to $100,000.Your landlord acted unlawfully (e.g. illegal eviction, not lodging the bond).Repairs, rent or bond issues can't be resolved directly.
How do I take my landlord to the Tenancy Tribunal in NZ?
Gather your evidence: tenancy agreement, photos, messages, rent records.Apply online via tenancy.govt.nz and pay the filing fee.Try mediation, then attend the hearing if it proceeds.Ask for exemplary damages where the landlord seriously breached the Act.
What should you NOT do — filing a tenancy tribunal claim?
Don't take the law into your own hands — get a Tribunal order.Don't turn up without organised evidence.Don't exceed $100,000 unless you take the dispute to the District Court.