Aucklanders are starting to look at renting in a whole new light, as it becomes an impossible dream to own a house in the city.

And landlords are happy to push the idea of a rented home for life - saying long term tenancies are a win-win.

More than 500 Aucklanders turned out to a debate last night on the future of renting.

David Whitburn of the Auckland Property Investors Association was there.

"Having a long term lease gives the landlord the benefit of minimising vacancy rates, creating a home for the long term for a tenant."

Mr Whitburn says with a more secure tenure, tenants could personalise their homes more with things like paint and curtains.