Regional Rental Review: Southland District

Exploring the Rental Market in the Southland District

Southland is New Zealand’s southernmost region, formed as a separate province in 1861. The earliest inhabitants were Waitaha, followed by Kāti Māmoe and Kāi Tahu (Ngāi Tahu); early European activity centred on sealing and whaling, with later settlement heavily influenced by Scottish migrants, heritage still evident today.  

The district’s population was approximately 33,900 as of June 2025. This is increasing on average over the last ten years at 0.86% per annum.  

Bonds & Market Activity

Southland’s rental market stays resilient. As of October 2025, there were 984 active bonds, with 30 lodged and 21 closed that month. Over the past year, active bonds rose +45, and over two years +72, signalling steady growth in the pool of managed tenancies. On average over the 12-month period ending October 2025, there was an average of 27.5 bonds lodged per month with 23.25 bonds closed.

The five‑year view shows a gentle uplift in active bonds with monthly lodged and closed volumes tracking closely, an indicator of a balanced market where new supply broadly offsets churn. 

Median rents: Southland vs. the rest of New Zealand

Southland’s affordability edge persists. In October 2025, the median weekly rent was $450 versus $590 nationally, -76% of the New Zealand median. Year‑to‑date, Southland averages $459, with New Zealand at $597 (-77%). These relativities help position Southland as attractive for both renters and yield‑focused investors. 

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