Building Standards

New Zealand Building Code requirements 

NZ Building Code for new build homes 

Overall construction R-value and Pink® Batts® suggested product R-values to meet these levels are different. The building code applies to the overall construction R-value. Your architect or specifier will specify the product R-value required for new homes. 

In August 2007 new Building Code amendments and compliance documents were published and the changes were introduced to the country gradually. 

By October 2008, all new homes and major extensions across New Zealand were required to meet the new insulation requirements. 

Insulation requirements are expressed as R-value and the higher the R-value the better the insulation provided.

Pink® Batts® Ultra® insulation has higher R-values than Pink® Batts® Classic insulation.   

System requirements depend on the area of the country in which you build, New Zealand is divided into three climate zones.

MAP OF NZ CLIMATE ZONES

The NZBC Clause H1 Table 1 details the construction R-value for each climate zone to meet the requirements of the NZBC. To achieve these construction R-value levels Pink® Batts® has recommended product R-values. 

Construction R-value. Take into account thermal bridging, cladding and other factors; and R-value of the insulation itself is not the same as the final construction R-value.

It’s important to remember these requirements are the minimum of what’s required. If you really want to improve your homes warmth and comfort consider installing higher grade insulation where you can.

Aiming for more insulation at the build stage is much easier and cheaper than trying to go back and add it later on. 

NZ Building Code for older homes

Current NZBC does not apply when simply retrofitting insulation to older homes, however renovations will probably need to meet current requirements. Check with your local council before retrofitting wall insulation into an existing home as they may also require council consent. 

MBIE has guidance on insulation levels in older homes

It’s never too late to fit or upgrade insulation in your current home.

Insulation requirements for rental properties.