The cost to obtain a Resource Consent can be substantial.

You must also be able to show that you can minimise the effects of the Airbnb on your neighbours, and show a genuine strategic or operational need for short term accommodation that is not met by the areas specifically zoned for guest accommodation. When granting a Resource Consent, the Council will look at the impact the short term accommodation has on the local community and will likely require written consent from your neighbours. This means hosting a spare room in your house may be compliant, but hosting an entire house likely is not. There are some Councils which do not require a Resource Consent for guest accommodation in residential zones if it is classed as a “bed and breakfast”.

The Council’s rules differ depending on the location and zoning of your property, and whether all or just part of the house will be rented out. If your property is in a residential zone, you may need to obtain a Resource Consent from the Council. However, some Councils have passed legislation to introduce higher rates and tighter regulations and if you are considering purchasing a property or using your currently owned property for short term accommodation, there are legal implications you need to consider. Short term accommodation options such as Airbnb and Book-a-Bach have seen many investors keen to get in on a booming industry.

Air b and b business