Changes are underway in New Zealand’s housing sector, and they’re especially good news for anyone considering a compact, comfortable home. The Government has recently announced plans to increase the maximum size of granny flats that can be built without consent from 60m² to 70m² – cutting red tape and opening up more possibilities for Kiwis across the country.
For us at South Peak, this shift aligns perfectly with the needs of our clients. As specialists in high-quality transportable homes, we know how frustrating and time-consuming building consents can be. This change could reduce overall project timelines by up to half, making it faster and easier for you to get into a home that’s affordable, efficient, and just the right size.
Under current rules, homeowners must seek building and often resource consent to add a standalone dwelling to their property. Even small projects, such as a two-bedroom granny flat, have been tied up in months of paperwork and council approvals.
The Government’s new plan, led by Housing Minister Chris Bishop, aims to fix that. By expanding the size exemption to 70m², more homes will qualify for streamlined builds – no building or resource consent required, provided the design meets key safety and performance standards, and the build is completed by authorized professionals. See more on the govt official site here.
In practical terms, these changes could significantly reduce the time, stress, and cost involved in building a granny flat. Without needing building consent, you could go from decision to move-in in half the time. This is especially important for:
Best of all, the expanded size limit makes it possible to build genuinely livable two-bedroom homes – not just studios or one-bedroom spaces.
Understandably, some have raised concerns about quality and safety with looser rules. But rest assured, the new framework still includes important checks. Homes must meet the New Zealand Building Code, and construction must be completed by qualified professionals. Councils will still be notified of builds and can apply infrastructure charges through the Project Information Memorandum (PIM) process.
The goal here isn’t to cut corners – it’s to cut the bureaucracy, making it easier for everyday New Zealanders to get the homes they need, without compromising on quality.
The rising cost of living, demand for multi-generational housing, and lack of affordable rentals have all pushed the Government to act. Simplifying the process for granny flats helps address multiple challenges:
As a manufacturer of prefab homes, we believe this is a smart, people-focused step toward solving New Zealand’s housing puzzle.
With these changes on the horizon, now’s the time to plan your dream granny flat. Whether you want a charming countryside retreat or a sleek, modern space to call home, we’ve got options ready to go – and soon, you won’t need to wait for consent to get started. Get in touch to learn more about our prefabricated minor dwellings, available from 28-70sqm.
