How Much Does A Mid Range Bathroom Renovation Cost In New Zealand?

ARTICLE Stephanie Matheson

A mid range bathroom renovation in New Zealand is likely to cost in the region of $30,000 - $50,000. Our simple tips below will help you keep your costs in check. Read on to find out what you can get for your money, or view our basic bathroom renovation estimate if you are looking to spend less or our high end bathroom renovation estimate if you are looking for something a bit more glamorous.
Getting ready in the mornings will never be as much fun as in a newly renovated bathroom. With a bit of clever planning and the right choice of products, you’ll be able to create a stylish space that’s value for money.

Should I change the layout of my bathroom?

Nine times out of ten, you’ll want to move fixtures around in your bathroom to create a space that really ‘flow’s and works for you. This will involve more plumbing and electrical work, but is worth the extra expense. To give you a general idea, for a bathroom renovation that includes a mid-range new bath, shower, vanity and toilet along with lights, extractor fan, heated towel rail, underfloor heating, paint and tile floor plus tiles that run 1.2 metres up all walls – you should probably spend between $26,000 and $28,000. A full bathroom makeover that is tiled to the ceiling with complete fit out and tiled shower would be from $35,000.

As a side note, heating water is expensive, so a renovation project is a good time to think about your water heater and potential energy efficient alternatives. It might be time to upgrade your hot water cylinder or consider ways to reduce your energy consumption such as solar water heating panels. Instant gas hot water heaters are available too, with unit prices starting from approximately $1,200 to $1,500.

How much does it cost to add a wet room?

Wet rooms are fully waterproofed areas where the walls of the bathroom form the boundaries of the shower itself. They work especially well for smaller bathrooms as they don’t need walls or glass panels and hence create the illusion of more space. The main cost factor is the floor-to-ceiling waterproof layer or lining, and expenses should not be spared in this area to ensure that water will not be able to leak out. You should factor in approximately $65 to $80 per square metre to get your bathroom waterproofed, including material and installation.

A wet room will have a fully sloping floor and floor drainage to allow all water to drain away properly. You can have a completely open shower or decide to install a glass panel after all to avoid water splashing where you don’t want it. The vanity will need to be placed away from the shower or be waterproofed.

What vanity and fitting options do I have?

Double bowl vanities are a very popular feature in New Zealand bathrooms, and for good reason. Not only are they super practical, they also look great. An entry-level model costs anywhere from around $1,100 to $2,000 off the shelf. For a custom-made vanity you will probably have to spend from $2,200 onwards.

If your budget stretches that far, bespoke vanities can be a real design highlight and offer a space to store all your bathroom goodies. Wall hung vanities with extra big drawers are fun and functional, and work well in combination with minimalist, flush-to-the-wall mirrors. Mirror cabinets are often recessed into the wall to achieve this look. They offer extra storage and can be fitted with task and ambience lighting.

Can I add extra bathroom storage?

When it comes to bathroom storage, vanities and mirror cabinets come to mind primarily. And while they provide a great basic storage capacity, there are lots of other clever ways to integrate storage solutions into your bathroom. In a tiled shower, for example, you can have a built-in, recessed niche that will hold your shampoo, shower gel et cetera. You can also include recessed storage around the room, or have a small cupboard built into the wall. The options are nearly limitless and your builder can advise on the best and most cost-effective solution.
Heated towel rails will take care of all your wet towels and keep a handy supply of hand towels ready for your guests to use. It pays to maximise the size of the rail unit so you don’t run out of space.

What lighting options do I have that suit my budget?

Your existing windows may be sufficient, but if they are small or in a unsuitable spot consider moving them and opting for larger window openings to create a light, bright space. There are a range of window tinting and frosting options, some of which can include artwork and create a real statement.

Skylights are a great option for small bathrooms. They let light pour in all day long and maintain privacy. You can choose from a range of models that are either fixed or opening. A basic, fixed skylight installed in an iron roof costs approximately between $1,800 and $2,200. Automatic opening models are more expensive than manual ones, and some of them can be fitted with rain sensors.
In addition to natural light, good task lighting is important in a bathroom. Recessed halogen or recessed LED strips generate a lovely warm ambience light. The trend is also to install a feature pendant in a prominent space. Chandeliers for example add glamour and a touch of luxury.

What kind of tiles should I use?

Porcelain tiles are extremely popular. They are a type of ceramic tile that is made from a special type of clay and fired at extremely high temperatures. This makes them very hard, durable and unlikely to chip or crack. They are generally more expensive than plain ceramic tiles, but also harder wearing which is why they’re often used in high traffic commercial areas. Less is often more and you only really need to choose two different tile types – one for your floor, one for the wall – for a simple but stylish bathroom. Wood-look porcelain tiles are a great way to create a ‘feature floor’, even in wet areas like your shower. They work really well when combined with a grey wall tile. As ever though, the choice is completely yours and the options are pretty much endless.

The ultimate comfort in your bathroom is provided by an underfloor heating system that keeps your feet nice and snug and also ensures that the room stays dry (a good extractor fan is also key). Most systems come with a timer so you can warm up your bathroom floor before you get up in the mornings.

Depending on your budget, you might like to read about bathroom renovation options with a Basic budget or a High-end budget.

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If you would like to discuss home renovation options for your next renovation project, please use the enquiry form on this page to provide us with your contact details. We will get in touch with you at a time that suits you to discuss your project. If you would like to provide us with more information about your project, we have a more comprehensive enquiry form on our "Get in touch" page too.
*Costs are rough estimates and are subject to change. For a fixed-quote accurate to your specific project, please consult your local Refresh Renovations specialist. All Refresh Renovations franchises are independently owned and operated.