Government MPs 10x more likely to be landlords than general population

Recently released documents show that 28% of MPs in the Coalition Government own rental or investment properties, compared with an estimated 2.8% of the adult population.

The figures from the 2024 Register of Pecuniary Interests come as the Government plans to reintroduce 90-day no-cause evictions, a move that would financially benefit landlords by allowing them to increase rents multiple times a year.

“As Kiwis struggle with the high cost of living and keeping the lights on this winter, the Coalition Government is pushing through this self-serving policy that will financially benefit more than a quarter of them” said National Organiser, Grace Tualalelei.

There is scant evidence to suggest no-cause evictions will improve private rental housing supply. Instead, the change could increase the number of evictions, potentially leading to serious negative health effects for renters.

RNZ analysis reveals that individuals aligned with the property sector have donated nearly $2.5 million to the Coalition Parties since 2021 – more than any other sector. 

“Government MPs’ rental property portfolios, combined with significant donations from the property sector, raise serious questions about potential conflicts of interest and these MPs’ ability to vote impartially on the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill,” said Grace Tualalelei, National Organiser.

“We wouldn’t tolerate company executives becoming MPs and voting on legislation that benefits their companies. Landlords should be held to the same standard as everyone else.” 

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