Landlord Jackie Thomas-Teague Elevates Tenant Experience in NZ

Jackie Thomas-Teague, a multi-property landlord in New Zealand, has received recognition for her exceptional commitment to enhancing the living conditions of her tenants. Managing ten investment properties across Wellington and Horowhenua, Thomas-Teague has ensured that most exceed Healthy Homes standards and are Home Fit Plus-certified, which measures key factors such as dryness and warmth. Her dedication was acknowledged when she was awarded the NZ Property Investors Federation RentSkills Landlord of the Year award for 2025.

As part of an ongoing series that highlights key figures in the housing sector, Thomas-Teague shared insights into her property management journey. In her role as the Chief Problem Solver at Bloom Property Management, she emphasizes the importance of proactive solutions. “What I love most is preventing problems before they happen,” she stated, outlining her strategy of envisioning desired outcomes and working backwards to create pathways for success.

With nearly 20 years in property management, Thomas-Teague has navigated various industry changes, including technological advancements and evolving regulations. Her initial foray into property management stemmed from a diverse career that included roles in museums, zoos, and preschool education. “Preschool teaching came close: helping people share toys and learning something new every day,” she reflected, drawing parallels between early childhood education and her current work.

After gaining insight into the property sector through conversations with experienced managers, Thomas-Teague was determined to carve out her niche. Her hands-on upbringing, where home improvement was a family affair, instilled in her a practical approach to property management. “I grew up in a hands-on household where my dad could fix anything,” she explained. Today, she often brings a toolkit to her clients’ properties, believing that even minor repairs can significantly enhance tenants’ experiences.

In her approach to property management, Thomas-Teague advocates for collaboration between landlords and tenants, viewing them as partners rather than adversaries. “Smart property managers know it’s not us versus them,” she explained, emphasizing shared goals. Her focus on sustainability reflects a belief that housing can play a vital role in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing public health. “Housing has enormous potential to create financial and social stability,” she noted.

Beyond her professional life, Thomas-Teague engages in a variety of hobbies, including beekeeping and woodworking. Her commitment extends to community service, where she has volunteered with organizations and mentored aspiring property managers. “I believe in paying it forward,” she said, highlighting the support she has received throughout her career.

Living on a block of land between Porirua and the Hutt Valley, Thomas-Teague and her family feel a sense of responsibility towards their environment. They actively engage in practices to enhance soil health and protect local wildlife. “Hearing kākā return to the area feels like a real win,” she remarked, showcasing her connection to the land and community.

For those entering the property market, Thomas-Teague offers a straightforward piece of advice: “Plan for the worst, hope for the best.” This perspective helped her navigate challenges during periods of high interest rates and fluctuating rental markets. She encourages first-time buyers to consider value in their purchases and to maintain long-term perspectives rather than focusing solely on immediate gains.

Her overarching message resonates through her commitment to fairness, integrity, and continuous learning. “Success built on trust, respect, and shared value stands the test of time,” she concluded, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in the housing sector.

Jackie Thomas-Teague’s journey exemplifies how a landlord can significantly impact tenant experiences while promoting sustainable practices and community engagement.