How much does a kitchen extension cost in New Zealand?

Having completed thousands of successful renovations, we’ve realised that kitchen extensions in New Zealand can be placed on a spectrum. In this article, we’ll take a look at the impact each budget driver has on these costs to help highlight where you may want to save or splurge.

How much does a kitchen extension cost?

A  kitchen extension in New Zealand will cost between $100,000 - $250,000+*
A complete remodel and extension of the footprint of your kitchen and house will cost you anywhere from NZ$100,000* upward. This would allow you to build a medium to large kitchen extension with high-end fixtures and finishes. Same level extensions are generally the most cost-effective way of adding square metres to your house, however, in many cases this is not the most practical way to add liveable space, especially in densely populated urban areas such as Auckland or Wellington.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving your kitchen extension goals so the best way to make a plan is by working with a Refresh Renovation Consultant. They can give you an accurate quote tailored to your project. But here, we’ll explore a few real-life examples of Refresh kitchen extension projects to help put things into perspective.

Main budget drivers of a kitchen extension

• Material selection
• Structural and functional requirements
• Joinery
• Logistics
• Size

Read on to find out how much your kitchen extension may cost depending on the changes you are looking to make.
See how Refresh helped this homeowner achieve a kitchen extension with an open plan design for $200,000*

Material Selection for a kitchen extension

The materials used for the extension can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials like stone, solid wood, and high-end appliances can be more expensive than other materials. Extensive tile installation, whether on the floor, as a splashback or design feature, is typically a component of a high-cost project, due to its labour-intensive nature and precision application.
Standard spec finishings and minimal tile work will keep budget blowout at bay, but the initial cost isn’t the only thing to factor in. Inexpensive materials may be cheaper at first but if they require replacing and substantial maintenance, the price tag could be much higher in the end. However, there are plenty of options available that are both affordable and durable. When it comes to cabinetry, you might be able to repurpose it. If they are solid, replacing only the doors and hardware allows for a cost-effective makeover.
For $207,390 this homeowner received a high-end interior renovation and extension with affordable materials.

‍Structural and functional requirements for a kitchen extension

In New Zealand, you will generally need to obtain building consent from your local council before adding a kitchen extension to your home. This is because a kitchen extension is considered a "restricted building work" under the Building Act 2004, meaning that it requires a building consent. See how building consent was quickly issued on this home extension due to the to the designer and his attention to the councils required details.
You may also need to obtain resource consent if the proposed kitchen extension does not comply with certain land use regulations, such as height restrictions or setbacks from the property line. See how Refresh worked with this homeowner to obtain resource consent as the extension infringed into the height to boundary restrictions.

Using your existing floorplan

‍If you have an underutilized space in your home, such as a sunroom or large lounge, it may be possible to repurpose that space for a kitchen extension instead of adding on to the house. This can be a more cost-effective solution and may also save time and hassle compared to a traditional extension. However, it's important to consider factors such as plumbing and electrical requirements, ventilation, and overall traffic flow when repurposing existing space for a kitchen. Working with your local Renovation Consultant can help you determine the best approach for your specific situation and ensure that your new kitchen is functional, safe, and meets your needs.

Adding square-meterage:

The addition of a kitchen extension to your home can provide greater flexibility, allowing you to undertake significant structural changes and incorporate architectural features such as exposed beams or a roof with a dramatic pitch. But as expected, this comes with a higher cost. Therefore, before adding a kitchen extension, it's important to carefully consider your budget, timeline, and specific needs and preferences.

Logistics for a kitchen extension

Adding a kitchen extension to your home involves a number of logistical considerations. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind based on cost.

The site:

When a property is on a freestanding, flat plot of land, free of government regulations and limitations, building an extension is usually fairly straightforward and won’t incur extra costs. There are no additional hoops to jump through or costly excavation needed. Simple site access makes it easier for the builders to come and go on your property and shortens the timeline as well. A sloping plot or a property with a compromised foundation will require extensive prep work to ensure that the area is safe for additional construction. This will incur additional costs. High-density areas also pose a problem if large machinery is required on site. Difficult access may need specialty equipment or creative solutions to get the job done. Both mean one thing: expensive.  

Heritage or conservation restrictions:

If the property is listed as a heritage site or is located in a conservation area, there may be additional restrictions on the design and construction of the extension to ensure that it is in keeping with the surrounding environment.

Size of your kitchen exension

The size of a kitchen extension can have a significant impact on the costs involved in New Zealand. Generally speaking, larger extensions will require more materials and labor, which can drive up the overall cost of the project.
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Get in touch with Refresh to discuss your home renovation project

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.
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*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.