The Housing Minister says introducing pet bonds will make landlords more likely to accept cats and dogs in their properties

The Government's bringing in changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to make it easier for pet-owning tenants to find rental housing.

It includes paying an extra bond of two weeks rent, to cover potential damage.

Chris Bishop says landlords' feedback indicates it will increase options for renters with animals.

He says it's designed as an extra surety and backstop for landlords, to make them more eager to make their property pet-friendly.