New Zealand renters are being urged to think twice before asking landlords for a rent reduction, despite national rental prices continuing to fall.

New data from realestate.co.nz shows average weekly rents have eased across much of the country as more rental properties enter the market and tenants gain greater choice.

Property experts say while some renters may be tempted to negotiate lower payments, long-term tenants could already be paying below current market rates — particularly if they have stable landlords and secure tenancy arrangements.

The softer rental market comes after a surge in available listings nationwide, with Wellington, Auckland and several regional centres recording notable increases in rental stock over the past year.

Recent figures show national average rents have dropped to their lowest levels since late 2023, with Wellington among the regions seeing the sharpest declines.

Analysts say slowing migration, increased housing supply and affordability pressures are reshaping the market, giving tenants more negotiating power than in previous years.

However, renters are being warned that pushing too aggressively for lower prices could backfire if landlords decide not to renew agreements or if cheaper alternatives come with trade-offs in quality, location or stability.

Housing advocates say the easing rents will provide some relief for households struggling with the wider cost-of-living crisis, although concerns remain over long-term housing affordability and rental security across Aotearoa.

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