How to get privacy, warmth, and style without losing your bond
Trying to hang curtains in a NZ rental can feel like a battle. Landlords often say “no screws,” but thin blinds don’t cut it — especially in winter. The good news? There are plenty of renter-friendly, no-drill curtain options that are legal, effective, and easy to remove when you move out.
🪜 What You Can’t Do (Without Permission)
Let’s get this out of the way:
- ❌ Drilling into window frames or walls
- ❌ Installing permanent curtain tracks or brackets
- ❌ Damaging plaster, paint, or aluminium joinery
Unless your landlord gives written approval, skip anything that leaves holes.
✅ What You Can Use Instead
These options are non-invasive and totally removable — perfect for renters.
1. Tension Rods
The classic go-to. They work like a shower rod — twist to tighten between two surfaces.
- Best for recessed window frames
- Hold lightweight to medium curtains
- Easy to install, remove, and reuse
- Budget-friendly
2. Adhesive Curtain Rod Holders → (Rare in NZ)
You might have seen stick-on curtain brackets overseas, but they’re not widely available here — and the few options on sites like Temu or Shein may not hold up under NZ rental conditions.
Instead, try this combo:
- Large Command hooks
- Paired with curtain clip rings or light rods
It’s not perfect, but it works for lightweight curtains or sheers.
⚠️ Stick to fabric under 1.5kg and avoid tugging or daily opening/closing.
3. Magnetic Rods (For Metal Frames)
These are rare in NZ, but perfect for aluminium window frames.
- Attach via magnets — no damage
- Limited availability in NZ, but can be imported
- Only support light fabric
4. Thermal Curtain Liners (Attach to Existing Curtains)
Don’t want to swap the curtains? Add insulation instead.
- Use clip-on or Velcro thermal liners
- Improve warmth without changing the setup
- Easy to remove before inspection
💡 Bonus: Curtain Alternatives
- Paper blinds (temporary, cheap, minimal look)
- Frosted film (great for privacy)
- Thermal roller blinds (if existing rods are unusable)
📦 Where to Buy No-Drill Curtain Supplies in NZ
💬 Final Word
No-drill curtain setups aren’t just renter-safe — they’re smart. You can warm up your space, add privacy, and make your place feel like home without a single screw.
When it’s time to move, you just pull it down — and take it with you.


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