The updated legislation is set to be passed by the end of 2024. Credit: Sigmund via Unsplash.

The New Zealand (NZ) Government has announced revisions to its Building Act in a bid to make building and renovating homes easier and more affordable in the country.  

The three changes to the Building Act are designed to streamline the process for using imported building products.  

These changes include recognising building product standards from trusted overseas jurisdictions and requiring building consent authorities to accept products that meet these specific standards. 

It also includes approving the use of building products certified via verification schemes abroad. 

This will help reduce domestic construction costs and improve the availability of high-quality affordable building products.  

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NZ Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said: “This is a major shakeup that will drive down the cost of building without compromising on quality, to make it easier and more affordable for people to build or renovate a home.” 

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The changes are part of a broader economic recovery plan that includes relaxing regulations and increasing housing and infrastructure development. 

The plan also includes halting wasteful spending, delivering tax relief, growing skills, and strengthening international connections for the country. 

Penk added: “This red tape entrenches the use of well-known products, which lowers competition, increases the risk of supply chain disruptions like in the recent GIB shortage, and ultimately makes it more expensive to build anything.” 

The changes are also anticipated to lower barriers for local businesses seeking alternative approval pathways for their products in NZ and for export. 

Additionally, the government has taken steps to exempt all projects under NZ$65,000 ($39,123.50) from its building levy. 

NZ’s Building (Product Certification) Amendment Bill is expected to be introduced later this year, with the legislation intended to be passed before the end of 2024.