How much does an outdoor renovation cost in New Zealand?

Outdoor renovations encompass everything from new decking to pool installation and entire living areas. Providing a blanket cost estimate without knowing exactly what a project entails will result in misinformation. We can, however, share the details and final costs for a range of recent outdoor renovation projects we’ve completed.
In addition to exploring these projects, we’ll go over some common factors of outdoor renovations that have the biggest impact on the cost: the scope of a renovation, specialty contractors, and integration. While these main budget drivers have the greatest effect on the final cost, they also offer a way to prioritise aspects of your renovation to suit your budget. You may have to compromise in some areas yet be able to splurge in others.
Identifying similarities and differences between the featured projects and your desired outcome will help you to better understand what you may spend on an outdoor renovation of your own. But this information is only a guide; working with a Refresh Renovation Consultant is the best way to get an accurate quote for your specific project.

Main budget drivers

• Scope of your renovation
• Speciality contractors
• Integration

Read on to find out how much your outdoor renovation may cost depending on the changes you are looking to make.

Scope of your renovation

Scope is a more accurate descriptor than size. This encompasses how big your project is, yes, but also what kind of work is required. Excavation, retaining walls, and structural changes may be necessary; the scope also extends to specific features such as louvres, patios, built-in kitchens, and landscaping. 
This 55m2 project began as a simple deck rebuild but ended up requiring extensive excavation and strengthening measures to ensure the structure was solid. The final cost came to $54,000*. See the full story here. (NOV 2018)
Another similar-sized decking project (48m2) cost $65,000* to complete; it included a new pergola and bracing elements that connected the new structure to the property’s existing second-storey balcony. See the full story here. (AUG 2020) 

A simple deck rebuild turned tricky in Fernhill, Queenstown

Speciality contractors

It goes without saying that specialty work comes at a premium, and the more artisan contractors your project needs, the higher the price tag at the end. That includes work such as pool repairs, complicated irrigation, outdoor kitchen building, and gas fire pit installation. 
Having said that, there’s no need to go out of your way to look for specialists. General contractors are highly-skilled in their own right and are demonstrably capable of completing the majority of tasks needed for a successful outdoor renovation. 
These homeowners opted for a design-led outdoor renovation without a set budget. They opted for a number of bespoke upgrades that called for pool and hardscaping specialists and an interior designer. The final cost of this 165m2 Mediterranean-inspired outdoor living area came to $395,000*. (JUL 2022)

Integration

When understanding the potential cost of an outdoor renovation, remember that the results must complement your existing property and therefore, may require a varying level of integration. Take time to consider all that may be involved. Do you want to achieve indoor/outdoor flow? How will the cladding and joinery be affected? Will you need to make changes to your property’s exterior?
Here, the homeowners wanted to reimagine their conservatory and create a space that flowed effortlessly to an outdoor patio. See how this 15m2 space was transformed for $170,000*. (OCT 2022)
Integration played a key role in the success of this 65m2 renovation. New weatherboard cladding replaced the dated stucco; in combination with matching window frames, the new facade complements the existing interior. See the result of this $320,000* renovation here. (MAR 2022)

Lia Boersma - A Conservatory Renovation transforms Indoor/Outdoor Flow in Khandallah, Wellington

Interested in what your outdoor renovation could cost?

A key step of the Refresh process includes getting an accurate cost estimate for your project. But before we can do that, an in-depth consultation comes first. During this chat, you can share your goals, budget, and potential timeline. Get in touch with a local Renovation Consultant to arrange your no-obligation consultation. 
*Costs are shown as an indicative guide of what previous projects have cost. The costs of renovating a home increase each year as material and labour costs rise. For an estimate/quote on your specific project, please consult your local Refresh Renovations specialist to find out more about our planning, design and build process.
**All Refresh Renovations franchises are independently owned and operated.