5 Feb 2026

For many property owners, the changes in regulations for building a standalone dwelling will be a welcome improvement, saving time and money. But even though the new national rules are more straightforward than previously, the ‘no consent’ statement comes with significant fine print, and not every backyard will fit the bill.

Recent coverage in the Waikato Times highlighted that understanding the details is a must. CKL director Bevan Houlbrooke shares his insights around how while the new rules may cut back consenting demands, there are PIM requirements and detailed documentation needed.

Not only are there rules that can vary by suburb but there are still plenty of different factors at play, with responsibility for compliance squarely placed with property owners.
At CKL, we believe the real value of these new rules lies in smart site planning. Beyond the building itself, homeowners must consider long-term implications of increased site coverage.

You can read the whole Waikato Times story, which also includes market commentary from Lodge Real Estate’s Jeremy O’Rourke here:

Click here to view article

With professional due diligence early, you can still move forward with confidence. If you’re considering an additional small dwelling on your section, do get in touch and we can talk you through the potential pitfalls and opportunities.

Consent-Free Granny Flats Sound Simple – But Not Every Backyard Makes the Cut