Dunedin student flat conditions

The story so far

In late August 2025, students reported damp, mould and unsanitary conditions when moving into North Dunedin flats.^{25 Aug 2025} The local students association called the area a slum and alleged that some landlords do not ensure properties are habitable before tenants move in.^{25 Aug 2025} Calls followed for a Rental Warrant of Fitness so that student flats would comply with the Healthy Homes Standards, with some Otago University students saying poor conditions, including mould, were causing illness.^{26 Aug 2025} University students also said the Tenancy Tribunal is not fit for purpose for disputes over flat conditions and withheld bonds, and one student needed parental help to win a recent case.^{1 Sep 2025} In September, a student was seeking her bond back through the Tribunal after living in a North Dunedin flat filled with rubbish, dirt and faeces, and she reported being harassed and constantly monitored by a landlord who owns multiple properties.^{4 Sep 2025}

Latest

A student is seeking her bond back through the Tenancy Tribunal after living in a flat described as filled with rubbish, dirt and faeces.^{4 Sep 2025}

Key moments

1. 25 Aug 2025Students report damp, mould and unsanitary conditions in North Dunedin flats.
2. 26 Aug 2025Calls grow for a Rental Warrant of Fitness for student flats.
3. 1 Sep 2025Students say the Tenancy Tribunal is not fit for purpose.
4. 4 Sep 2025Student fights for bond after flat filled with rubbish and faeces.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.