21 Day Notice to End a Periodic Residential Tenancy in New Zealand: What Tenants Need to Know with Changes in the Law
By Lyanne Parra. Published on 17/07/2025.
As a property manager here at Pride Property Management Invercargill, one of the most common questions we’re asked is: “How much notice do I need to give to end my tenancy?”
The answer has changed in recent years due to updates to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). If you’re a tenant in Invercargill, Southland, or anywhere in New Zealand, it’s important to understand your obligations before moving out.
The Law on Notice Periods: From 28 Days Back to 21 Days
Between August 2020 and January 2025, changes to the RTA required tenants on a periodic tenancy to give 28 days’ written notice when they wanted to end their tenancy.
However, as of recent updates in 2025, this requirement has shifted back to 21 days’ notice.
This means that even if your tenancy agreement still says “28 days’ notice,” the law overrides the contract. Tenants now only need to give 21 days’ written notice to their landlord or property manager to end a periodic tenancy.
What Tenants Must Do to End a Periodic Tenancy
If you’re a tenant in Invercargill or Southland wanting to end your periodic tenancy, here are the steps you must take:
- Give Written Notice
- Notice must be given in writing — by letter, email, or other agreed method.
- Clearly state the date you intend to end the tenancy.
- Provide at Least 21 Days’ Notice
- Count 21 consecutive days (including weekends and public holidays) from the day after you give notice.
- Your tenancy ends on the final day of that period.
- Keep Proof of Notice
- Whether you email or deliver notice by hand, keep a copy for your records in case of disputes.
- Work with Your Property Manager
- At Pride Property Management, we’ll guide you through the exit process, including final inspections, bond returns, and any maintenance required.
Why the Notice Period Matters
Giving the correct notice ensures a smooth exit process and avoids complications such as rent arrears or disputes. For landlords in Southland, it also provides enough time to re-market the property and secure new tenants.
As property managers, our role is to make this process stress-free for both tenants and landlords.
Key Takeaway
- Old rule (2020–2025): 28 days’ notice required.
- Current rule (2025 onwards): 21 days’ notice required.
- Law overrides your tenancy agreement.
So, if you’re a tenant ending your tenancy in Invercargill or Southland, remember — 21 days’ written notice is all that’s required.
Need Help With Tenancy Matters in Invercargill or Southland?
At Pride Property Management Invercargill, we specialise in making rental transitions easy for tenants and stress-free for landlords. If you’re unsure about your notice obligations, or if you’re a landlord wanting expert property management in Southland, help with managing your rental or just want to talk about property in Southland, get in touch with Nash today.
Call us today on 0800 001 659