Conversations at the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand’s National Property Management Conference on Friday, 20 March made one thing clear: Greater consistency and accountability across property management is no longer optional, it is expected.

I had the privilege of speaking on a leadership panel at the conference and was genuinely humbled by the feedback received, particularly around the value of practical, experience-led insight. It is something I am committed to continuing. Contributing to the evolution of property management in a way that is both grounded and forward-looking.

Earlier this month also marked 21 years in real estate for me! A milestone I am proud of, and one that reinforces both my passion for this work and my commitment to its future.

Against that backdrop, I am pleased to share that on the 24th of March 2026, Associate Minister of Housing, Hon Tama Potaka, announced that Cabinet has agreed to develop a new “light-touch” regulatory framework for residential property managers.

You can read the full release here: Government announcement on property manager regulation

What is being proposed?

While still in development, the framework is expected to introduce:

  • A public register of residential property managers and organisations
  • Minimum standards for training, experience, and eligibility
  • A formal complaints and disciplinary process
  • Clearer requirements around the handling of client funds

What does this mean for you?

At its core, the intention is to improve consistency, accountability, and confidence across the rental sector.

For New Zealand property investors, this is a positive step. It reinforces the importance of:

  • Professional management of your investment
  • Transparency in how funds are handled
  • Clear standards of service and accountability

At Goodwins, these principles already sit at the heart of how we operate.

We welcome the direction of this framework and its focus on strengthening trust across the sector.

As further detail is released and the proposals progress toward legislation, we will continue to keep you informed.