News Details

Minor Dwellings and Extended Family Living

Choosing Care Without Compromising on Return 

If you’re starting to think about living arrangements for your parents, either now or in the future, you’re probably not alone. Whether it’s prompted by age, health, or simply wanting to be closer, it’s a conversation many families have.

The good news is, there are more options than ever before. 

While retirement villages and aged care facilities have traditionally been the go-to, the rise of minor dwellings is offering a fresh and flexible alternative - one that’s affordable, more personal, and in many cases, more sustainable.

A considered choice that balances care and independence

Bringing a second, self-contained home onto your property offers a way to stay connected without taking away independence or space.  It’s a middle ground that works for many families: shared land, separate living.

With recent changes to minor dwelling rules across New Zealand, it’s now easier to add a second dwelling if your property allows. And with transportable homes, the process is even more straightforward. Your new home is built off-site and delivered ready to go, with far less disruption to your day-to-day life.

Flexible living with long-term value

If you’ve got the space on your property, adding a second home for extended family can be one of the smartest decisions you make. You’re offering the comfort of connection and support, without the ongoing cost of retirement facilities and you’re investing in a high-quality, transportable home that adds real, long-term value.

Unlike retirement living, a minor dwelling is a tangible asset, one that appreciates over time, can be financed via a mortgage, and gives you flexibility if plans change. The home can even be relocated to another section if needed.

Designed to suit your needs, including accessibility

Every Greenhaven home is architect-designed and built to a high standard, with the flexibility to suit your specific needs. If accessibility is a priority, we can work with you to incorporate features like level-entry access, wider doorways and open-plan layouts for ease of movement.

“We’re actually going through this process ourselves, looking at bringing a second home onto our section for my parents,” says Todd, owner of Greenhaven Homes.

“It’s a great option because we know the quality of what we’re getting. These homes are built to last and designed to live in. It’s not about compromise, it’s about creating something that genuinely supports our family, both now and into the future.”

Real solutions without the complexity

We understand that taking on a new build can feel daunting, but we’re here to make the process simple. You won’t need to juggle multiple trades or coordinate with an architect, builder, and contractors. You’ll have one point of contact and one team committed to delivering a home you’ll be proud of.

Minor dwellings won’t be the right fit for everyone, but if you’re weighing up the options, they’re worth serious consideration. With the right property and a trusted builder, they can offer a unique combination of closeness, comfort, and long-term financial return.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more, take a look at our minor dwelling designs here or get in touch with the team, we’re here to help you find the right solution for your family.