That article is pure and simple click bait from Stuff.
A screaming inaccurate headline on a Hot button issue.
The Landord with a dozen properties was well experienced and his two 2017 tribunal cases ended with sizeable payouts for himself. He admitted he stopped regularly inspections and with his portfolio of properties, why didn't he get an agent in to help?
He claimed there were $25,000 in damages yet he applied only for $5040. Why only claim that if his recent cases gave him sizeable payouts?

He did not just get $50 he got the bond as well. The article is click bait. An accurate headline would not have drawn in as many clicks.