Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find the answer to your question below, get in touch with your Tenancy Manager or give us a call on 0800 521 555.
How do I pay rent?
How you pay rent depends on your source of income:
- If you are receiving a main benefit, like Job Seeker or superannuation, your rent should be sent to us directly from this income.
- If you are working, you can ask your employer to take your rent from your wages.
- If you are on ACC, you can get your rent paid out of your weekly compensation.
Pay by automatic payment or internet bill payment
Tāmaki Housing is listed as a bill payee with all major banks. Select Tāmaki Housing from the list of bill payee options available, then fill in the payment fields as below:
Particulars: Your last name (surname)
Code: Payment type, e.g. RENT
Reference: Your payment reference (this number is shown on all the letters you get from us, or you can call us on 0800 521 555 to check your payment reference number)
You can also follow this process to pay overdue rent (rent arrears).
Pay through a BNZ ATM
BNZ’s smart ATMs will guide you through making a payment to us. You will need to enter your payment reference (this number is included on all our letters to you). You should also enter your last name on the payment screen.
You can also follow this process to pay overdue rent (rent arrears).
Pay by cash or EFTPOS at any BNZ branch
Just let the bank teller know you want to make a deposit to Tāmaki Housing, then share your details – they will need your last name, payment type (e.g. rent) and payment reference (this number is included on all our letters to you).
You can also follow this process to pay overdue rent (rent arrears).
How do I pay for property damage?
Pay by automatic payment or internet bill payment
Tāmaki Housing is listed as a bill payee with all major banks. Select Tāmaki Housing from the list of bill payee options available, then fill in the payment fields as below:
Particulars: Your last name
Code: Payment type, e.g. DAMAGE
Reference: Your payment reference (this number is shown on all the letters you get from us, or you can call us on 0800 521 555 to check your payment reference number)
Pay through a BNZ ATM
To do this, you will follow the same process as paying rent through a BNZ ATM.
Pay by cash or EFTPOS at any BNZ branch
To do this, you can follow the same process as paying rent at any BNZ branch.
Will the cost of my rent change?
The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will look at your income and rent at least once a year. That’s because any changes in your income or situation could affect the amount of rent you need to pay. If your rent needs to change, MSD will send you a letter to let you know. Then we will send you a letter that includes the start date of the new rent amount, so that you can adjust your payments.
If you don’t agree with the decision MSD makes about your rent, you can call them on 0800 673 468 to talk about your concerns, or contact them through their website.
Rent refunds
Paying too much rent can happen. If this happens, we will send you a letter to sort out a refund.
What happens if I don't pay my rent?
If you are finding it difficult to pay your rent, please contact us as soon as possible so we can help set up a plan to keep you on track.
Can somebody else help me manage my tenancy?
Some of our tenants ask a trusted person (or agent) to help manage some parts of their tenancy for them. Often this agent is a son or daughter, but it could be someone from a local organisation or a church leader, for example.
If you want them to, your agent can do things for you like:
- Talk to us about your tenancy
- Look at your file to see what information we have about you, including payments
- Get your mail from us
- Give information about you to Tāmaki Housing
- Appear in your place at a court or tribunal
It is important you choose someone you can trust. Talk to your tenancy manager if you want someone to be your agent.
How do I get a copy of my tenancy agreement?
You can ask for Tenancy Manager for a copy of your tenancy agreement anytime.
Alternatively, you can add your request to this form and we’ll send you a copy by post or email.
Will I have property inspections?
Yes. We carry out Home Visits every six months. We'll always let you know in advance and aim to give you at least 7 days notice of any Home Visit.
What do I need to know about choosing a power provider?
You get to choose your own power provider. It's a good idea to pick one with a plan that works best for you and your household.
Before choosing a power company, compare prices and plans to find one that fits your household. It can be helpful to pick a provider that lets you track your daily electricity use.
