Kia ora, New Zealand! The government's new 2025 minor dwelling rules represent one of the most significant housing policy shifts in recent years. At Hive Homes, we believe in keeping our community informed about changes that could benefit homeowners across Aotearoa. Here's your comprehensive guide to understanding these updates and what they mean for your property.
The Key Changes Explained
Starting 2025, nationwide regulations will standardise granny flat (minor dwelling) construction with:
✔ 70m² in most residential zones (no resource consent required)
✔ Removed parking requirements for minor dwellings
✔ Relaxed boundary rules with reduced setbacks
✔ Height allowances increased to 4m in some cases
These changes replace the previous patchwork of council-specific rules that made minor dwelling projects unnecessarily complex.
Why These Changes Matter
1. Housing Supply Solution
- MBIE estimates these changes could create 50,000+ new small homes nationwide
- Provides more options for affordable housing without major infrastructure changes
2. Financial Benefits for Homeowners
- Average construction costs can be significantly lower than standalone builds
- Potential rental income of $350-$550/week in most regions
- Can increase overall property value by 15-25% (CoreLogic data)
3. Social & Family Benefits
- Ideal for multi-generational living arrangements
- Creates housing options for elderly parents or adult children
- Supports more sustainable urban density
Important Considerations
While the rules are more flexible, certain requirements remain:
Building Compliance
- Must meet all NZ Building Code standards (insulation, structural, fire safety)
- Still requires building consent (though process is streamlined)
Infrastructure Needs
- Proper wastewater solutions (connection to existing systems or approved alternative)
- Adequate water supply and electrical connections
Council Variations
- Some heritage areas or special zones may have additional restrictions
- Owner-occupier requirements may apply in certain regions
Practical Building Considerations
If you're considering a minor dwelling, keep in mind:
Orientation matters
- North facing living spaces maximise sunlight
Service connections
-Position near existing plumbing/electrical to reduce costs
Future-proofing
- Consider accessibility features for aging occupants
How Hive Homes Can Assist
While we're builders at heart, our first priority is helping homeowners make informed decisions. We offer:
🔸 Free feasibility assessments for your property
🔸 Regulation guidance specific to your area
🔸 Educational resources about the building process
Have questions about how these changes affect your property? We're happy to provide unbiased advice - no obligation required.
