ODT GRAPHICRental properties in the southern regions appear to be turning the economic principle of supply and demand on its head. But when the number of rental properties does not keep pace with demand, the property owners can charge more because renters have less choice. Despite supply dropping by more than a quarter, the average rental price also dropped by 4.1% (from $541 per week in January 2025, to $519 in January 2026). Despite the anomalies in the principles of supply and demand in the southern regions, the nationwide rental market reacted as expected under the principles. "Overall, this is a rental market offering very different experiences, depending on where renters are relocating.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 09, 2026 17:53 UTC