Local property managers in North Dunedin have begun rebranding black mould as a “heritage feature”, with one manager stating that “black mould is just such an ugly term for a local treasure”. The change follows an increase in complaints from students expecting rental properties to meet what landlords describe as “unrealistically modern standards”, such as not being able to see your breath inside.
New TradeMe listings have already begun swapping phrases like “sunny villa” and “all whiteware included” for descriptions of “authentic Edwardian moisture detailing with original fungal textures” and “heritage dampness preserved in its original condition.” Another listing proudly advertised “a naturally occurring ecosystem, perfect for environmentally conscious tenants.”
Property Manager Wayne Kerr defended this new marketing, stating that “it’s not the landlord's job to maintain the property.” He added that mould was essentially “living wallpaper”, and therefore counted as a decorative feature rather than a maintenance issue. “Dunedin is known for its heritage buildings across New Zealand,” he continued. “Embracing the unique features of our old houses is a real testament to embracing the history of our cold, but mighty city”.
According to Critical Tribune's investigation of recent listings, flats advertised as “warm” contained exactly one patch of sunlight between 2:17 and 2:34 pm in late February. Listings advertising “excellent ventilation” were found to simply have cracks in the windows. Yet record numbers of Dunedinites are flocking to open homes and flat viewings, to see these heritage features in the flesh. In particular, extra interest has been seen from botany and microbiology students, who are “ideal stewards for the mould”, according to Kerr.
Students admitted they have begun lowering their expectations. “I viewed one place where the mushrooms weren’t growing anymore,” one excited second year said, “and it’s only $280 per week! What a steal.” Another student reported celebrating after discovering their bathroom had 3 separate mould species, adding that, “the property manager said this showed biodiversity, and I’m pretty sure that’s, like, super important.”
TradeMe has reportedly started trialling new search filters such as ‘visible structural timber’ ‘heritage moisture’, and ‘only minor respiratory consequences’. Landlords have welcomed the changes, with one expressing praise for the “greater transparency”. Another landlord explained to Critical Tribune that “properties are now easier to match to prospective tenants”, thanks to these filters. “With students these days, it’s hard to please everyone – some people don’t mind mould, but can’t do single glazing.” Now there's the chance to choose which living conditions you want to be subjected to.
Otago University has also announced plans to incorporate mould literacy into Orientation Week after first years repeatedly mistook black mould for an “exposed brick feature.” The new paper, FLAT111: Living With Character, will teach students how to differentiate between decorative dampness and an immediate health concern.
As flat hunting season begins to gear up, the recent embrace of Dunedin’s old houses means heritage character will be front of mind for ‘the youthful students’. Would you rather live with mushrooms on the floor, or gaps in your walls? Get in touch with Critical Tribune to share your thoughts on the changes to the rental market in 2026.
