Queenstown rental listing 'experiment' highlights market problems
A cabin without a bathroom or kitchen listed for rent in Queenstown this week has been removed from Facebook Marketplace after concerns were raised about it.
The cabin was in the backyard of a Lake Hayes Estate property, and was losted for $250 a week including utilities.
“Furnished. No insulation, but it has a small heater. No bathroom or kitchen,” the listing said.
A Tenancy Services spokesperson said it would be unlawful to rent out the cabin for residential purposes as a standalone proposition, as such rentals needed to have, or have access to, appropriate cooking and bathroom facilities.
But when approached by Stuff the lister, Tommy Fu, said the cabin was not really for rent, and the listing was an experiment.
Read the full story by reporter Miriam Bell here.
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Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.