The experienced landlord is a long-time member of the board
The Auckland Property Investors’ Association Incorporated (APIA) has named long-time member Kristin Sutherland as its new president.
Sutherland, an experienced landlord, was elected on to the APIA board in 2018 and served as secretary from 2019 to 2020. She is particularly interested in restoring the public’s confidence and trust in landlords.
“For too long, our industry has been mischaracterised and dishonoured by a rogue minority of self-serving landlords who cause harm to tenants and communities. They do not represent us. APIA landlords understand that tenants are our partners. It is a symbiotic relationship where one cannot exist without the other,” Sutherland said.
Sutherland said she also aims to reframe the public’s understanding of residential tenancy.
“Renting is not a zero-sum game. There is mutuality in terms of challenges, opportunities, and outcomes that connect landlords and tenants. Ultimately, we all want renting to be modern, safe and efficient,” she said.
“Leadership matters. The change in attitude and language must come from the top. We need to start speaking in one voice to not just call out bad behaviours but also articulate a more ideal future for residential tenancy. The rest of New Zealand is watching.”
