New national rules mean you can now build a 70m² minor dwelling (granny flat) without a building consent. The process is simpler but what you can place on your land still depends on planning rules, site conditions, and smart design choices.

At Tiny Home Base, we help you understand what’s possible on your property and match you with a ready-to-go cabin or granny flat that fits the new rules without long build wait times.

Ready to find out what's possible?

Book a no-obligation, free Site Assessment.

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Important Update on Building Rules

The rules around building a granny flat in New Zealand have changed. While the consent pathway is now simpler, understanding what works on your specific site still takes experience and clear advice.

Tiny Home Base specialises in cabins and minor dwellings you can view, walk through, and buy today. Whether you’re creating space for family, adding a rental, or setting up a self-contained studio, we’ll help you navigate the new 70m² exemption with confidence and without unnecessary delays.

What the New Rules Allow

What’s changing? 

From 15 January 2026, homeowners can build a stand-alone, single-storey dwelling up to 70m² without needing a building consent.

These dwellings commonly referred to as granny flats or minor dwellings must still meet the New Zealand Building Code, but the overall process is faster and more accessible.

Key requirements include:

  • Maximum internal floor area of 70m²
  • Single-storey, stand-alone structure
  • Simple, code-compliant construction
  • Work completed or supervised by licensed professionals
  • Council notification before and after the build (via a PIM and final documentation)

The exemption removes building consent paperwork and not the need for quality, compliance, or smart planning.

Why a Site Assessment Still Matters

Every site is different. Zoning rules, setbacks, hazards, and service connections all affect what you can place on your land, and where. 

That’s why the first step is understanding your site. 

We help assess: 

  • Zoning and planning requirements 
  • Setbacks, site coverage, and height limits 
  • Flood, wind, seismic, and coastal considerations 
  • Access to power, water, wastewater, and stormwater 
  • Which cabin layouts will work best on your property 

This gives you clear direction upfront, before you commit to a cabin. 

Our Range & Ready-to-Go Options

Tiny Home Base offers one of the largest ranges of cabins and minor dwellings available in New Zealand, including: 

  • Studio layouts 
  • One-bedroom cabins 
  • Two-bedroom cabins 
  • Larger multi-room designs approaching the 70m² limit 

Many models are available now, on site and no long build queues. 

View cabins available today

Need something specific? We can also help source or order a solution that fits your site and intended use. 

How the Process Works

Is it really simpler? 

Yes, and we keep it that way. 

Here’s how it works: 

1. Site Review We help you understand planning constraints and what’s realistic for your land. 

2. Choose Your Cabin Select from cabins in stock or discuss alternatives that suit your needs. 

3. Council Notification (PIM) We guide you on what needs to be submitted before placement. 

4. Delivery & Placement Your cabin is delivered and positioned on site. 

5. Final Documentation We help ensure the right compliance documentation is in place. 

Clear steps. No guesswork. No waiting months for a build to start. 

Why Choose Tiny Home Base

  • Cabins available now and not months away 
  • Large range of new and pre-owned options 
  • Walk through real cabins before you buy 
  • Practical guidance on the new granny flat rules 
  • Faster timelines than traditional builds 
  • Clear pricing and straightforward process 

Browse it. Buy it. Move it onto your land.

Start With a Site Assessment

What this means for you

The new rules open the door, but your land determines what’s possible.

Begin with a complimentary site assessment and get clear, expert guidance tailored to your property.

Book Your Free Site Assessment