Fixed-term tenancy (New Zealand)
A New Zealand residential tenancy granted for a specific period with a defined start and end date, governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.
A fixed-term tenancy in New Zealand runs for the period stated in the tenancy agreement — commonly six or twelve months — and automatically converts to a periodic tenancy at the end unless the parties have agreed otherwise in writing before expiry.
During the fixed term, neither party can end the tenancy early without the other’s agreement or an order from the Tenancy Tribunal, except on the limited statutory grounds set out in the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. Rent cannot be increased during a fixed term unless the agreement specifically provides for it.
Fixed-term tenancies are the preferred structure when landlords want revenue certainty, but they also restrict flexibility on both sides during the term.
Primary source
Tenancy Services — Types of tenancies →Last reviewed 15 April 2026. Rates, thresholds, and deadlines change — always verify against the primary source before making decisions.