NZ Property Insights: New 70sqm Granny Flat Rules Explained & NZ Interest Rate Predictions 2026

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As of January 15th, 2026, the rules for building minor dwellings in New Zealand have officially changed. The headlines say "No Consent Needed" for builds under 70sqm, but the fine print says something very different.

In this premiere episode, Paul and Debbie Roberts (Property Apprentice) strip away the media hype to look at the practical details that actually matter to your portfolio. We break down the specific "gotchas" in the new Building and Construction Amendment Act—specifically regarding wet areas and accessibility—and why your choice of builder is now a massive liability issue.

Plus, we look at the surprising rebound in the NZ job market. While more jobs are great for paying rent, we discuss why this "good news" might actually slow down the OCR cuts we were all hoping for. Finally, we issue an urgent warning for self-managing landlords regarding a specific email from Tenancy Services that you cannot afford to ignore.

In this episode, we cover:

The 70sqm Exemption: What you can build, what you can't, and why "exempt" doesn't mean "rule-free."

The "Shower Trap": Why installing a level-entry shower for an elderly relative might technically trigger a consent requirement.

Liability Shifts: Why the homeowner is now the guarantee, not the Council.

Economic Update: Why a hiring boom in 2026 could result in "sticky" inflation and mortgage rates.

Landlord Admin: The missing "LNL" code you need to access the new Tenancy Bond Hub.

Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to NZ Property Insights 0:55 - New Granny Flat Rules (70sqm Exemption) Explained 2:15 - The "Granny" Trap: Wet Areas & Accessibility 4:30 - The Resource Consent Misconception 6:20 - 2026 Economic Shift: Jobs vs. Inflation 8:45 - What High Employment Means for Mortgage Rates 9:45 - Urgent: The "LNL" Code for Self-Managing Landlords

Resources & Links: Learn how to create a property strategy that works in the 2026 market. Register for our upcoming free online event, "How to Succeed with Property Investing." 👉 Register here: https://www.propertyapprentice.co.nz/auckland-events/

About Property Apprentice: Property Apprentice is New Zealand’s leading property investment education and coaching provider. We offer 100% impartial advice—we don't sell property, so our only goal is to help you achieve financial freedom through safe, strategic investing.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial advice. We recommend seeking advice from a qualified professional before making any investment decisions.

*Property Advice Group Limited trading as Property Apprentice has been granted a FULL Licence with the Financial Markets Authority of New Zealand. (FSP Number: FSP157564) Debbie Roberts | Financial Adviser (FSP221305) For our Public disclosure statement please go to our website or you may request a copy free of charge.