MASSIVE DEMAND FOR WELLINGTON RENTALS
'Massive' demand for Wellington rentals and shortage won't ease soon, Trademe says
Wellington is bearing the brunt of fierce demand for rentals, and there is no relief on the horizon.
Head of Trade Me Property Nigel Jeffries said the demand in Wellington was "massive", with the number of available rentals dropping 70 per cent on December 2016.
January "is likely to be even more extreme", he said.
In one case, a two-bedroom rental in Wellington was listed for 25 hours before it was taken down due to a flood of 55 applications.
The capital also saw the highest rise in median weekly rent over the last two months, up $30, from $450 to $480 in December.
The latest Trade Me Property Rental Index shows fewer listings compared to last year, and the cost of rent was on the rise.
Jeffries said rental availability would only get tighter, and prices higher in 2018.
"Overall the shortage of rental properties isn't going to get easier anytime soon."
"Demand will continue to exceed supply this year and as a result we are predicting that the national median weekly rent will rise between 3 and 5 per cent."
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.4% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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