Granny flats NZ — self-contained, delivered, set up in a day
A complete second dwelling for the back section. Bathroom, kitchen, insulation and wiring already installed — no build site, no six-month timeline.
Expanders® supplies granny flats throughout New Zealand from $34,000, with one-bedroom, two-bedroom and open-plan layouts available in 20ft, 30ft and 40ft sizes. Each granny flat arrives fully self-contained with a bathroom, kitchen, EPS insulation, double glazing and NZ-standard wiring, and is craned onto a prepared pad and unfolded within a day. A 3-year structural warranty applies, and finance is available through Better Finance.
Granny flat rules in New Zealand
Since the minor residential unit rules came into effect, most councils allow one additional self-contained dwelling of up to 60m² on an existing residential section, subject to site coverage, setbacks and outdoor living space requirements. Our 20ft, 30ft and 40ft units all sit comfortably under that cap.
Consent requirements depend on the servicing — a unit connected to water, wastewater and permanent power is generally a consented build, while an unserviced sleepout may be exempt. We supply full specifications and floor plans for consent applications.
Timeline compared with a built granny flat
A traditionally built granny flat in New Zealand runs six to twelve months from design to occupancy, with the site disrupted for most of it. Our lead times are measured in weeks, and the site is occupied for a single day during install.
That gap matters most when the reason for the build is urgent — an ageing parent moving in, a family member needing somewhere to live now, or rental income you'd rather start collecting this quarter.
Renting it out
A granny flat is one of the few property additions that pays back predictably. Depending on region, a self-contained one-bedroom unit rents for $280–$450 per week long-term, and materially more on short-stay platforms over summer. Our income calculator estimates short-stay returns using your own nightly rate and occupancy assumptions.
Popular granny flat layouts
One and two-bedroom units sized for a back section.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a granny flat cost in NZ?
Expanders® granny flats start at $34,000 for a 20ft open-plan unit and $39,200 for a 20ft one-bedroom. A 30ft with a full living room is $52,700. Delivery is quoted separately.
Do I need consent for a granny flat?
Usually yes if it's connected to services as a self-contained minor dwelling. Rules vary by council — most allow a minor residential unit up to 60m² on an existing residential section. We provide specifications and plans for your application.
How long does it take to install a granny flat?
The unit is craned onto a prepared level pad and unfolded in a single day. Site preparation and service connections are arranged separately.
Ready for a delivered price?
Build a quote in a couple of minutes and we'll come back with delivered pricing for your region.