🪟 Best No-Drill Curtain Solutions for NZ Rentals

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.