Best Time to Renovate in New Zealand (2025 Ultimate Guide)
When you’re renovating a house in New Zealand, timing is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make. Proper timing will save you money, avoid delays, and make everything easier.
In this simple guide, we’ll explain the best times to renovate in New Zealand. You’ll learn about the different seasons, what types of projects suit each time of year, and tips to plan ahead in 2025.
Quick Summary
- Best overall time: Late summer to early autumn (February–April)
- Best for outdoor work: Summer (December–February)
- Best for indoor work: Winter (June–August)
- Best for saving money: Late autumn and winter (off-peak months)
- Plan ahead: Book projects 6–12 months in advance for 2025
Why Timing is Important
Good timing makes it easier to:
- Avoid bad weather delays
- Find tradies when they’re not as busy
- Get materials quicker and maybe cheaper
- Move through council approvals with less hassle
Season-by-Season Guide
Summer (December – February)
Best for:
- Outdoor painting
- Roofing
- Building decks
- Full renovations (if booked early)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long daylight hours | High demand, higher prices |
| Dry weather in most areas | Tradies tend to take holidays during Christmas |
| Ideal for outdoor work | Have to book early to get tradespeople |
Tip:
If you want to renovate in summer, book at least 6 months ahead of time.
Autumn (March – May)
Best for:
- Outdoor work before winter
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
- Flooring and internal painting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mild weather | Shorter days |
| Tradies back to work after holidays | Some areas can be wet |
| Easier to book tradies and inspections |
Tip:
This is a great all-round season. Not too hot, not too cold, and tradies are available.
Winter (June – August)
Best for:
- Indoor projects like kitchens, bathrooms, flooring
- Insulation and heating upgrades
- Budget-friendly renovations
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tradies less busy | Cold, wet weather limits outdoor work |
| Possible off-season discounts | Shorter daylight hours slow work |
| Faster council processing and deliveries |
Tip:
Focus on indoor work during winter. It’s also a time to negotiate prices.
Spring (September – November)
Ideal for:
- Planning and getting quotes
- Outdoor preparation work
- Starting foundations
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warmer weather | Busy time for landscaping and preparation work |
| Longer daylight | Money-saving tip: Get ahead before the summer rush |
Tip:
Use spring to book tradies in advance for your summer renovations.
Special Notes for 2025
- Material delays: There are still some materials like timber and fixtures that can take a long time to wait for.
- Council approvals: Can take several weeks depending on location.
- Labour availability: Still some skilled trades in short supply.
Tip:
Plan your renovation 6–12 months in advance to stay on track.
Regional Tips
- North Island:
Warmer and milder, which means renovations can be done most of the year. - South Island:
Winters are harsh — prioritize indoor work midway through the year. - Coastal areas:
Salt and moisture destroy exteriors. Book dry months. - Earthquake zones (e.g. Wellington):
Strengthening work and council timeframes may be longer. Plan well ahead.
Final Tips for Renovating in 2025
- Plan ahead. Book trades and order materials in advance.
- Be flexible. Delays and weather can happen.
- Communicate well. Stay in touch with your builder and suppliers.
- Check availability of materials. Stay in contact with your suppliers so you don’t get caught out.
There is no perfect time to renovate, but you can make smart choices depending on your renovation type and time of year. For most Kiwis, late summer to early autumn is perfect. If you’re undertaking indoor renovations, winter is a great choice too — with better availability and potential cost savings.
Next steps:
- Get quotes and plan early.
- Book tradies and book materials in advance.
- For more handy hints, see our other renovation guides.
