http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/ The latest Blog feeds from www.fourbytwo.co.nz en-us Sat, 02 May 2026 12:07:45 +1200 Rocketspark http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/post/160410/granny-flat-rules--pros-and-cons/ The new Granny Flat Rules could make it easier to build a Granny Flat on your property. There are both pros and cons to utilising the new rules (National Environmental Standard for Domestic Minor Residential Units (NES-DMRU)).ProsNo building or resource consent needed if all NES-DMRU criteria / standards are met.Approximate cost savings of $5–6k due to no consent-related fees.Faster project timelines because the consent process is removed.Provides more flexible housing options for property own... Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:21:15 +1300 http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/#post160410 http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/post/159311/thinking-about-building-a-granny-flat-heres-what-you-need-to-know/ 1. Purpose of the RulesCreate new national standards for minor dwellings.Allow granny flats to be built without building or resource consent when standards are metMake minor dwellings easier and more affordable to build.2. Where the Rules ApplyAcross all of New Zealand, in:Residential zonesMixed‑use zonesRural zonesMāori all‑purpose zonesPermitted activity: → One detached minor dwelling up to 70 m² per site → Only if all standards are met3. Standards for Building Without ConsentA new g... Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:23:04 +1300 http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/#post159311 http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/post/159310/new-and-updated-national-direction-instruments-whats-changing-and-why/ On 15 January 2026, ten national direction instruments under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) came into force. These updates included three brand‑new instruments and seven updated versions of existing ones.These changes take effect immediately and will help shape New Zealand’s future planning system. While they are designed to work under the current RMA, they will also guide how planning is done in the new system being developed.Why are these changes being made?The goal is simple: To m... Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:11:34 +1300 http://www.fourbytwo.co.nz/blog/#post159310