Why Renovate Instead of Move?
- Land is limited in Auckland, and prices remain high.
- Older character homes need modernising but often sit in prime suburbs.
- Families prefer to stay in school zones and established communities.
- A well-executed renovation can significantly increase property value.
What Counts as a Full Renovation?
A full home renovation means transforming most or all of your home:
- Structural changes and reconfiguration.
- Updating plumbing, wiring, insulation.
- Kitchen and bathroom rebuilds.
- Exterior upgrades (roofing, cladding, windows).
- Improving energy efficiency and weathertightness.
See also: Kitchen Renovations | Bathroom Renovations
The Renovation Process Step-by-Step
1. Planning & Budgeting (1–2 months)
- Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
- Build in a 15–20% contingency for older homes.
- Typical costs: $1,100–$5,000+/m², depending on quality.
- Secure your team early: designer, QS, builder with Auckland experience.
More detail: Auckland Renovation Costs 2025
2. Design & Documentation (1–3 months)
- Finalise layout, finishes, and materials.
- Confirm structural and engineering details.
- Prepare accurate documentation for council consents.
3. Consents (2–3 months)
- Building consent: required for most structural work.
- Resource consent: if overlays or heritage restrictions apply.
- Auckland Council processing: 20–40 working days for building, longer if resource consent required.
See: Auckland Council Renovation Projects
4. Pre-Construction (2–4 weeks)
- Confirm contracts and timelines.
- Arrange temporary accommodation if needed.
- Prepare the site, protect areas staying.
5. Construction (4–8+ months)
- Demolition, structural works, and exterior envelope.
- Install services (plumbing, electrical, HVAC).
- Interior finishes: kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, paint.
- Quality checks and council inspections.
6. Handover (2–4 weeks)
- Final inspections and Code Compliance Certificate (CCC).
- Snag list resolution and cleaning.
- Delivery of manuals, warranties, and keys.
Timelines at a Glance
| Phase | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Planning & Design | 1–3 months |
| Consents | 2–3 months |
| Pre-Construction | 2–4 weeks |
| Construction | 4–8+ months |
| Handover | 2–4 weeks |
| Total | 9–18 months |
Older villas and bungalows often add extra months due to hidden issues.
Costs in 2025 (Auckland)
- Basic: $1,100–$1,920/m²
- Mid-range: $1,920–$3,000/m²
- High-end: $3,000–$5,000+/m²
Typical 150m² home:
- Basic: ~$165k–$288k
- Mid-range: ~$288k–$450k
- High-end: $450k–$750k+
Extra costs: council fees ($5k–$15k+), professional fees (8–15%), temporary rent, storage, and furnishings.
Case Study: Creating Space for Family Life
The challenge: A growing family needed better functionality and flow in their home, without losing character.
Our approach:
- Opened up living spaces for connection and light.
- Added modern kitchen and bathrooms.
- Improved insulation and services for year-round comfort.
- Blended old and new for a seamless, timeless result.
Outcome: A transformed family home that now perfectly supports modern living, while retaining its charm. The renovation added both value and lifestyle benefits.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Underbudgeting: always allow for contingency.
- Rushing consent: causes avoidable delays.
- Choosing price over experience: often costs more long-term.
- Living on site: adds stress—temporary relocation is often best.
- Ignoring Auckland’s climate: proper weathertightness is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a full home renovation cost in Auckland?
Costs range from $1,100 to $5,000+ per m² depending on finish level. A 150m² home may cost anywhere from $165,000 to $750,000+. See our detailed Auckland Renovation Costs Guide for more.
How long does the renovation process take?
Most full renovations take 9–18 months from planning to handover, depending on size, age of the property, and consent requirements.
Do I need council consent for a renovation?
Yes, for almost all structural work. Resource consent may also be needed if your home is in a character overlay or heritage area. Learn more in our Auckland Council Building Consent Guide.
Can I live in my home during the renovation?
For partial renovations, sometimes. But for full renovations, temporary accommodation is usually necessary to avoid disruption and safety risks.
What adds the most value in an Auckland renovation?
Kitchens, bathrooms, indoor-outdoor flow, and energy efficiency upgrades typically add the most value. Preserving character features in older homes also pays off.
Ready to Start Your Renovation?
Our team has delivered full home renovations across Auckland—from character villas to modern family homes.
Why Choose Add Value Renovations?
- Proven local expertise with Auckland’s housing stock.
- Transparent process from design to handover.
- A track record of successful transformations.
- Full service: design, consents, and construction.
👉 Contact us today for a consultation, or start a conversation with our renovation assistant using the chat icon on your screen.
