If you’re planning a major renovation or new build in Auckland, you’re probably wondering:
“How long will it take?”
At Woodsmith Building Co., we specialise in architecturally designed homes and character renovations, and while no two projects are the same, the overall timeline typically ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity.
But time isn’t the only factor you should consider before getting started. Auckland’s building landscape is full of red tape, heritage protections, and suburb-specific rules that can influence how (and what) you build.
Here are 5 key things to consider before diving into your project, especially if you’re renovating a villa or building in one of Auckland’s character suburbs.
1. You May Need More Than Just Building Consent
Most people expect to apply for a building consent but depending on your home and location, you may also need resource consent, particularly if:
You’re altering the exterior of a heritage home
You’re in a Special Character Area (common in suburbs like Grey Lynn, Mt Eden, and Remuera)
Your design doesn’t meet height-to-boundary or daylight plane rules
Real-life example: A Mount Eden homeowner was recently told to lower their front fence because it exceeded height restrictions in their zone - a reminder that even minor features are regulated.
Typical timeframe: 4–12+ weeks for consents, sometimes longer if additional information is requested.
2. Character Protections Can Affect Your Design
Many of Auckland’s older suburbs like Ponsonby and St Heliers fall under Auckland Council’s Special Character Overlay, which protects the historical look and feel of certain neighbourhoods.
This means:
Double glazing may not be allowed on visible street-facing windows
You might need to retain original weatherboards or rooflines
Any changes to your home’s street elevation will be heavily scrutinised
Tip: Work with a builder (like us!) who knows how to navigate these constraints. We can guide your designer and liaise with council to keep your vision intact.
3. Your Suburb May Come with Its Own Set of Rules
Even outside the Special Character Overlay, each suburb has its own quirks. For example:
Remuera homes often face heritage considerations and site slope challenges
St Heliers builds are affected by coastal erosion zones and viewshafts
Grey Lynn and Westmere typically involve tight access, requiring careful planning around deliveries and trades
Mount Eden is known for strict frontage and façade preservation
Knowing the planning history of your suburb can help avoid costly rework and delays.
4. Construction Can Take 4 to 12+ Months
Once we’re on-site, our job is to bring the design to life. We coordinate everything from tradies and materials to inspections so your build progresses efficiently.
Typical construction timeframes:
Major renovations: 4–6 months
New builds: 8–12+ months
We also build in allowances for Auckland’s unpredictable weather, material delays and, in the case of character homes, the odd hidden surprise (like unconsented extensions or rotten framing).
5. You’ll Want a Team Who Can Handle the Paperwork (and the Craftsmanship)
The paperwork side of building in Auckland has grown increasingly complex. Between the Unitary Plan, heritage overlays, council processing backlogs, and site-specific challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
At Woodsmith Building Co., we manage the entire process from early planning through to handover. We bring together designers, engineers, subcontractors, and council to keep your project on time and on brief.
A Realistic Project Timeline
Here’s how long your project might take, end to end:
Planning & Design: 1–3 months
Consents & Approvals: 4–12+ weeks
Construction: 4–12+ months
Final Inspections & Handover: 2–4 weeks
Total:
Renovation: 6–9 months
New Build: 12–18 months
Ready to Build or Renovate in 2025?
If you’re thinking about renovating your villa or building a custom home in Auckland this year, now’s the time to get started.
At Woodsmith Building Co., we combine high-quality craftsmanship with proactive project management so you can enjoy the process as well as the end result.
Let’s talk about your plans. Contact us to start the conversation.
