This week, the Summit Property Management team had the pleasure of recognising two remarkable students from Waimea College’s Special Education Department. Each term, we present Achievement Awards to acknowledge dedication, progress, and personal success — and Term 4 was no exception.
Congratulations to Seqouia-Marie Hill and Hamish Wilson (pictured), the well-deserved recipients of this term’s awards. Both students have shown outstanding commitment to their learning and continue to inspire those around them.
We’re proud to support our local schools and celebrate the achievements of young people in our community.
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Searching for a rental home when you have pets can sometimes feel daunting — but the good news is that with the right preparation and a proactive approach, you can greatly increase your chances of securing a property that suits both you and your furry companion. Here’s how to put your best foot (and paw) forward.
Before You ApplyBefore submitting any applications, make sure the property is genuinely suitable for your pet. Consider:
Space and layout: Is there enough room for your pet to live comfortably?Fencing and security: Will outdoor areas keep your pet safe and contained?Rules and restrictions: Check subdivision or body corporate bylaws to ensure your pet type is permitted.Daily needs: Think about access to outdoor areas, exercise spaces, and safe environments.A Pet Profile helps landlords feel confident about approving your pet. Include:
Your pet’s name, age, breed, and personalityDetails about training, such as obedience or house trainingVaccination and flea treatment historyRegistration or microchipping informationA recent, friendly photoThis small step goes a long way in showing responsibility and transparency.
Provide Rental ReferencesIf you’ve rented before with your pet, ask your previous landlord or property manager to confirm that:
Your pet was well behavedYour pet did not cause damageThere were no noise or nuisance issuesPositive references can significantly strengthen your application.
Find out more here Tenant Support & Guides
A safe, secure home isn’t just about the walls—it’s also about protecting what’s inside. Most households have around $60,000 worth of belongings, often without realising it. Fires, theft, water damage, accidents, and natural disasters can happen unexpectedly, and replacing everything can be costly. Contents insurance helps cover your personal items and gives you peace of mind.
What It CoversFurniture, electronics, appliances clothing, and valuables such as jewellery and artworkRemember: Your landlord’s insurance does not cover your belongings. Having your own cover ensures you’re protected financially if something goes wrong.
Looking After Your HomeReport any damage or maintenance issues quicklyPay rent on timeBe considerate of neighbours, contractors, flatmates, and guestsLearn how we can support you every step of your tenancy. For guidance on tenancy responsibilities and keeping your home safe, visit My Rental Resources or check out our Tenant Handout from Summit Property Management.
For official information, visit Tenancy Services.
Summit Property Management are helping spread kindness where it’s needed most.
Summit Property Management are proud to support the Whakatū Refuge Trust in their annual Christmas donation drive — bringing hope, comfort, and joy to local women, teens, and children who have engaged with the Trust’s services this year.
We can make a real difference this festive season by donating non-perishable food, gift cards, or presents for families in need.
Donation drop-off boxes are located at all Nelson Tasman Summit Real Estate and Summit Property Management offices, including;
Office
Address
Summit Property Management Nelson
60 Rutherford Street, Nelson 7010
Summit Property Management Stoke
506 Main Road Stoke, Stoke 7011
Summit Property Management Richmond
203 Queen Street, Richmond 7020
Summit Property Management Motueka
102 High Street, Motueka 7120
View full gift wish list hereTogether, we can show that our community cares — because even Santa needs a little help sometimes. #SleighthisSeason!
Summit Property Management Proudly supporting Whakatū Refuge Trust.
The rental market across Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough is showing signs of renewed strength — and both landlords and tenants are starting to benefit.
After several challenging years, steady demand and key policy changes have breathed fresh confidence into the investment market. For landlords, improved financial conditions and greater regulatory clarity are helping restore balance. For tenants, higher property standards and better communication are becoming the norm.
Rising Expectations from RentersSummit Property Management General Manager Stewart Henry says tenants today are looking for far more than just a roof over their heads.
“Tenants want long-term security of tenure, compliant homes that are warm and dry, respectful treatment, and transparency around rent reviews and inspections,” says Stewart.
Connectivity has also become essential.
“Fast broadband and reliable mobile coverage are now non-negotiable. With more people working remotely, if a property doesn’t have good connectivity, it’s less attractive,” he adds.
More Confidence for LandlordsRecent policy shifts have also turned the tide for property investors. The reinstatement of interest deductibility, lower borrowing costs, and the return of the 90-day no-fault termination have made property ownership more appealing again.
“Being a landlord is more attractive now than it was a few years ago,” Stewart says. “That change has brought more investors back into the market.”
However, he notes that supply challenges remain, especially for affordable single-person dwellings. Studio flats and compact units continue to be in high demand but are under-built across the region.
A Balanced but Competitive MarketWith more than 2,000 homes managed from Picton to Motueka, Summit Property Management has a clear view of regional rental trends. While demand still outweighs supply in many areas, the market has shown signs of seasonal easing.
“This winter we’ve seen more stock available, and rents have flattened out. We’re not facing the same vacancy issues as Auckland or Wellington, but properties need to present well and be competitively priced to rent quickly,” says Stewart.
Certain areas — such as Motueka, Mapua, Brightwater, and Richmond — remain hotspots, with strong competition for three-bedroom family homes and continued growth in both business and housing activity.
Compliance Driving Better OutcomesIncreased compliance under the Healthy Homes Standards has been another positive driver. The push for higher standards in insulation, ventilation, and heating has prompted many landlords to upgrade their properties.
“Leading up to July, there was a flurry of improvements to properties — including vapour barriers, insulation, and extractor fans,” Stewart explains.
“For tenants, this has reduced the prevalence of damp, poorly maintained rentals. For landlords, it reinforces the need to treat their property as a business asset that meets modern standards.”
Alongside legislative compliance, Summit has continued to invest in its people — ensuring property managers are trained not only in the Residential Tenancies Act but also in effective communication and conflict resolution.
“It’s important property managers have the ability to find common ground between landlords and tenants,” says Stewart. “If we can keep tenants satisfied and housed for longer, that’s a win for everyone.”
For over 33 years, Summit Property Management — part of the Summit Real Estate Group — has provided results-focused, professional property management across the Top of the South. The company remains committed to supporting landlords, protecting assets, and fostering positive, long-term tenancies.
Learn more or speak with your local Summit Property Manager
Article expert by Bernadette Cooney | Business South: Volume 34 | Issue 8 | November 2025
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has announced new regulations for methamphetamine contamination in rental housing due in 2026.
Methamphetamine contamination levels are not currently set to a level that is agreed upon by differing bodies, some insurance companies apply the level at 1.5µg/100cm2 others and the Tenancy Tribunal apply 15µg/100cm2.
There is also a lack of control and regulation of the Methamphetamine testing and cleaning industry which this bill aims to address.
Read more about the new regulations
Source Ministry of Housing and Urban Development
As a landlord or investor, you want more than rent collection—you want confidence your property is protected, compliant, and performing. That’s where Summit Property Management’s REINZ Accreditation makes the difference.
What it means for you:
Proven expertise – Accredited members must show specialist skills to operate as residential property managers. Clear standards – You know you’re working with a trusted professional, not just anyone. Up-to-date knowledge – We commit to 10+ hours of training every year, keeping your investment safe and compliant.With over 30 years of experience and the largest local team across Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough, Summit offers care, protection, and results for landlords and investors—backed by REINZ Accreditation.
Ready to safeguard and grow your investment? Talk to Summit Property Management today.
Summit Property Management is proud to support the Waimea Special Education Department Awards each term. These awards recognise students who show hard work, perseverance, and the ability to overcome challenges.
For Term 3, congratulations go to Manaaki Marsh-Wetere and Tom Storey. Both students have achieved outstanding results and are very deserving recipients. Our team members Stew Henry and Fiona Harris were pleased to present Manaaki and Tom with cinema vouchers as a reward for their efforts.
At Summit Property Management, we’re proud to celebrate local students and support the community we work in.
Pictured: Fiona Harris Summit Property Manager (Richmond), Manaaki Marsh-Wetere, Tom Storey, Stewart Henry (Property Management General Manager)
Read More on how Summit is involved in our community here.
Owning rental property can be profitable, but managing it yourself isn't always the best choice. Here's when hiring a property management company makes sense.
6 Signs You Need Professional Property Management1. Your Property is Far Away
If you don't live near your rental property, you need someone local who can:Handle emergencies quicklyCheck on the property regularlyKnow reliable contractors in the areaMeet with tenants face-to-face when needed2. You Don't Want the Hassle
Managing rental property involves lots of tasks:Collecting rent every monthFinding and screening tenantsHandling maintenance and repairsDealing with tenant complaintsFollowing landlord lawsIf this sounds overwhelming, hire a professional.3. You Want to Stay Out of Tenant Drama
Many landlords prefer to avoid direct contact with tenants. A property manager handles:Difficult conversations about late rentComplaints and disputesMove-in and move-out inspectionsEvictions if necessary4. You're Too Busy
If you have a full-time job or other commitments, property management takes time you might not have. Professional managers work while you focus on other things.5. You Can Afford the Cost
Property management typically costs 8-12% of your monthly rent. Many owners find this worthwhile because:It saves time and stressProfessionals often get higher rentsProperties stay rented longerYou avoid costly mistakes6. You Own Multiple Properties
The more rental properties you own, the more sense professional management makes. It's much easier to have one company handle everything than juggle multiple tenants yourself.What Good Property Managers Do
A quality property management company will:
Find and screen good tenantsCollect rent and handle late paymentsCoordinate all maintenance and repairsConduct regular property inspectionsHandle legal issues and evictionsProvide monthly financial reportsHow to Choose the Right Company
Look for a property manager who:Knows your local rental marketHas good reviews from other landlordsOffers clear, fair pricingUses modern technology for communicationHas proper licenses and insurance offeringThe Bottom Line
Hire a property management company if you value your time, want less stress, or lack experience with rental properties. While it costs money, good management often pays for itself through higher rents, fewer vacancies, and avoiding expensive mistakes.
Ready to learn more?
Contact Summit today for a free consultation to see if professional property management is right for your rental property.
At Summit Property Management, we know trust is earned through clarity. That’s why we’ve rolled out industry leading video inspections — giving landlords a front-row seat to your property's condition, from wherever you are.
No guesswork. No blurred lines. Just real-time walkthroughs, expert commentary, and peace of mind delivered straight to your screen.
"Thank you for the very detailed and accurate video inspection. This is an excellent record of the interior and exterior condition of 13 Milton Terrace. I believe this method of reporting on rental properties to be first class. Cheers"
— Henri, Investment Property Owner Picton
"I’ve found the video inspection tours to be invaluable — they provide a comprehensive view of how well our house and section are being maintained”
— David, Richmond Landlord
For a clear view on your investment, Contact a local Property Manager