Buying guide

Building cost per square metre in NZ (2025)

Hint – it’s not cheap.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 8 March 2025 | 6 min read

Building cost per sqm in NZ

How much does building really cost?

Building cost per sqm by location

Source: Canstar

What influences cost per sqm?

How much does building a house cost? How long is a piece of string?

Tips for managing construction costs

Have a contingency fund

Ensure your construction contract is airtight

Keep an eye out for provisional or variable costs

Choose your builder wisely

Use standard plans where possible

Building may be expensive, but it could be worthwhile.

Sort out your living plans (and prepare for delays)

Get your construction loan sorted early

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty