News Details

Building Smarter with Greenhaven: Get Ready for New Granny Flat Rules

The government has announced a game-changing amendment to the Building Act — soon you’ll be able to build a minor dwelling (granny flat) of up to 70 square metres on your property, without the need for building consent. This legislative change is expected to take effect mid-2025, making it easier and faster for homeowners to create additional living spaces without navigating the usual red tape. 

At Greenhaven Homes, we see this as a huge opportunity for homeowners to add real value to their properties — and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

Why this law change matters

For years, Kiwis wanting to build a self-contained minor dwelling on their property have had to navigate a time-consuming consent process, even for small, standalone homes. The new rules mean that as long as your granny flat meets specific standards, you’ll no longer need building consent. That opens up all sorts of possibilities — whether you’re:

• Downsizing to something more manageable
• Adding space for extended whānau or aging parents
• Creating a private rental for extra income
• Future-proofing your land with a flexible living solution

Not tiny homes. Real homes — built smarter

At Greenhaven, we don’t do tiny homes. We build architecturally designed, transportable homes that feel anything but small. Our minor dwellings are thoughtfully crafted to make the most of every square metre — smart layouts, quality materials, and spaces that feel open, light, and functional.

From our compact one-bedroom options to two-bedroom homes perfect for multi-generational living, each home is built in our controlled factory environment before being delivered to your site. The result? A hassle-free build, delivered faster, and with fewer surprises.

A range of options, ready for the moment

With the law change on the horizon, now’s the time to start planning. Explore our range of minor dwellings, including:

• One-bedroom homes for independent living or holiday rental
• Two-bedroom homes for growing families or shared occupancy
• Our new Pod Collective, 40m² homes designed with the same quality and attention to detail as our larger builds

Need help with finance? We’ve got you

We know the dream can feel out of reach without the right financial support. That’s why Greenhaven offers exclusive financing options for eligible clients — helping you get started sooner, with confidence.

Be ready when the rules change

The shift in regulation is a clear signal: smaller, smarter, more flexible living is the future of New Zealand housing. And at Greenhaven Homes, we’ve been building that future for years. Let’s talk about what’s possible on your site — because when the rules change, you’ll want to be ready to build smarter.