A property expert says Kiwibuild's build-to-rent scheme needs to offer tenants a chance to put down roots, not live in a slum.

Massey University's Home Affordability Report author David White says mass rentals, like apartment blocks, need to be well managed.

He told Kate Hawkesby New Zealand doesn't have an established market of professional landlords.

White says the rental market has various issues, such as a short rental tenures.

White says a long-term rental market - with leases of about four years - would be good for society.

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