Granny flats—also known as secondary dwellings—are quickly becoming one of the smartest property investments for New Zealand homeowners. With recent regulatory changes, building a 70m² self-contained unit on your property has never been more accessible.
At No Bull Sheds, we help Kiwi property owners turn their backyard space into a high-performing investment—without the red tape, delays, or guesswork.
What’s Changed? Easier Rules, Faster Builds
Recent government changes now allow homeowners to build a granny flat up to 70m² without requiring traditional building or resource consents in many regions. This removes a major hurdle and means you can build faster and with less upfront cost.
That said, you still need to meet building code requirements. Your plans must be legitimate and built by Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs)—and that’s where our team at Waikato Shed Company comes in. We’ll manage the entire process, ensuring your build is compliant, efficient, and stress-free.
How Much Does a Granny Flat Cost?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
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Base build cost: From $200,000 for a quality, turnkey-ready two-bedroom unit.
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Utility connections: Expect $20,000–$30,000, depending on your site conditions.
Financing Examples (100% lending, interest rate approx. 4.99%):
| Term | Weekly Repayment |
|---|---|
| 20 years | ~$365 |
| 30 years | ~$248 |
These estimates provide a realistic starting point for anyone considering the addition of a granny flat.
Rental Returns: What Could You Earn?
The potential for rental income is strong, especially with the current housing demand across New Zealand. A modern, well-insulated two-bedroom granny flat can rent for approximately $550 per week in many areas.
Let’s break down the numbers:
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Mortgage repayment (30-year term): ~$250–$300/week
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Insurance, maintenance, other fees: ~$100/week
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Total outgoings: ~$350–$400/week
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Potential profit: ~$150–$200/week positive cash flow
This type of return makes granny flats a smart financial move that helps you build equity and earn steady income.
Construction Timeline: Fast, Efficient, and On Budget
With council consent no longer required in many areas, the build time is significantly reduced. From design to completion, you could be looking at just 3–5 months total.
We handle everything:
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Site assessment
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Engineering and design
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Consents (where applicable)
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Full project management and construction
At Waikato Shed Company, we pride ourselves on delivering quality structures—on time and on budget.
Getting Started: Your Granny Flat Roadmap
Thinking of building? Here’s how to begin:
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Speak to a Finance Broker
Understand your borrowing capacity and explore your options. -
Get Pre-Approved
Pre-approvals typically last 12 months—plenty of time to finalise plans. -
Engage a Trusted Builder
Our team will guide you through site-specific planning, compliance, and execution. -
Explore Value Add-Ons
Add a consent-free garage, workshop, or carport to expand utility and appeal.
Multi-Purpose Use: More Than Just Extra Space
A granny flat offers flexibility and function:
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Rental income: Ideal for tenants or Airbnb
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Home office: A quiet, detached workspace
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Multi-generational living: Space for elderly parents or adult children
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Guest accommodation: Private, comfortable space for visitors
A Better Use of Land, A Brighter Future for NZ
These new regulations represent a significant step toward smarter land use and more affordable housing options. At No Bull Sheds, we’re proud to help lead that change—delivering modern, durable, and purpose-built structures across the region.
Get in Touch with No Bull Sheds
Whether you’re ready to build or just exploring your options, we’re here to help. Our experienced team will guide you every step of the way—from concept to completion.
📞 Contact us today to book a free consultation and see how a granny flat could work on your property.
