What is a good rental yield in NZ?

Property Management


What is a good rental yield in NZ?


If you’re investing in property, rental yield is one of the first numbers you'll want to understand. It gives you a quick snapshot of how well your investment is performing, but what’s considered “good” depends on where you buy, what you buy, and your long-term goals.

In 2025, a good gross rental yield in New Zealand ranges between 3% and 8%. In urban centres like Auckland and Wellington, yields tend to sit lower - between 3-4% - while in regional areas like Manawatū or Timaru, investors may achieve 5.5% or more.

But rental yield isn’t everything. High yields can be offset by poor tenant demand, higher maintenance costs, or low capital growth. That’s why it pays to speak to someone who knows the market. Use our rental yield calculator or talk to a Property Brokers property manager to understand what a good return looks like in your area.

“In the Manawatū, we usually aim for a gross yield of around 5.5% on well-managed properties,” says one Property Brokers property manager. “But yield is only part of the story - we work with our investors to build a strategy that fits their long-term goals.”




What is rental yield?

Rental yield measures the income your property generates compared to its value. It’s usually expressed as a percentage.

  • Gross rental yield = (Annual rental income ÷ Property value) × 100
  • Net rental yield factors in ongoing expenses like rates, insurance, and maintenance.

Unlike capital gains, which can be speculative, rental yield provides a consistent metric for tracking return on investment. At Property Brokers, we use yield in appraisals, rent reviews, and when helping clients decide whether to buy, hold, or sell.

Learn more about our property management services and how we help investors maximise returns.




What is considered a good rental yield in NZ?

Here’s a rough guide for 2025:

  • Major cities: 3-4%
  • Secondary centres: 4-6%
  • Regional towns: 6-8%

In places like Taranaki or Hawke’s Bay, yields at the higher end of the spectrum are more common—but that doesn’t mean they’re automatically better. A high yield might signal risk, especially if the property struggles to attract long-term tenants or incurs more frequent repairs.

Want help choosing where to invest? Read our guide on the best places for property investment in NZ.




How investors should use rental yield

Yield is a great decision-making tool, but it shouldn’t be used in isolation.

  • Early in your investment journey, you may focus on capital growth - buying in an area likely to appreciate over time.
  • Later, you might shift your focus to yield and cashflow to generate ongoing income.

Your total return includes yield, capital gains, and cash flow. A balanced portfolio typically considers all three.




Factors that influence yield

Many variables affect rental yield. These include:

  • Property type: Dual-key apartments, standalone houses, and multi-dwelling blocks all perform differently.
  • Location: Proximity to schools, universities, or job hubs can boost demand.
  • Vacancy rates: A high-yielding area may come with longer vacancy periods.
  • Compliance and upgrades: Healthy Homes standards, insulation, and heating costs impact outgoings.
  • Renovation potential: Minor updates can lift rent and attract better tenants.

Check out our Healthy Homes checklist and renovation resources to learn more.




Improving yield strategically

Looking to boost your yield? Here are some proven strategies:

  • Raise rent in line with market conditions - your PB property manager can help with this.
  • Upgrade smartly - think heat pumps, second bathrooms, or low-maintenance flooring.
  • Reconfigure layouts to add bedrooms or separate dwellings.
  • Reduce costs with proactive maintenance and better energy efficiency.

Need expert help? Book a free rental appraisal to see where you stand.

One recent Property Brokers client improved their net yield by nearly 1.2% after a minor bathroom upgrade and rent review. These are the sorts of gains that add up over time.




Property Brokers’ perspective: Yield isn’t everything

At Property Brokers, we manage over 8,000 properties across regional New Zealand. We know yield matters—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

Our nationwide network and local specialists help investors:

We’re your long-term partner in property investment.




Find out if you’re getting a good return

Wondering if your investment property is pulling its weight?

Whether you’re new to investing or managing a growing portfolio, Property Brokers is here to help you make smart, strategic decisions.




Answering your questions about rental yield in NZ

  • What is the average rental yield in NZ? Typically 3-4% in major cities, 4-6% in regional towns, and up to 8% in some cases.
  • Is 7% a good rental yield in 2025? Yes - especially in regional areas. But sustainability matters, too.
  • What’s the difference between rental yield and cash flow? Yield is a percentage return. Cash flow is the actual money in your pocket after expenses.
  • Should I prioritise yield or capital growth? It depends on your goals. Many investors chase growth early and yield later.
  • How often should I review rental income? Annually at a minimum. More frequently in fast-changing markets.
  • Where are the highest yields in NZ? Typically in regional towns with strong tenant demand and lower entry prices.
  • What if my yield is too low - should I sell? Not necessarily. A PB property manager can help explore options to improve it first.


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