Hello from the WBR Team!
This month, we’re starting with something big: the new Granny flat legislation and what it could mean if you’re planning a small secondary dwelling on your property.
We’re also excited to share our Pick of the Month: “Gillies” — a beautifully kept 1950s weatherboard classic with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, ~155sqm (approx.), and that warm native-timber character we all love. It’s currently in Epsom, Auckland, with piling and a two-piece move within 100km included (conditions apply).
Inside this email:
Granny flat legislation explained: What the new rules mean for small standalone dwellings.
Pick of the Month: “Gillies” – floor plan highlights, inclusions, and relocation info.
What kinds of homes can actually be moved? A simple guide to what’s possible (and what’s not).
Our services: How we move homes safely across the North Island — and why we stand by being reliable, caring, and honest.
A quick heads-up: our team will be on Christmas break from 19th December to 5th January, so if you’re planning a project, now’s a great time to get the ball rolling.
As always, whether you’re relocating, repiling, shifting onsite, or starting from scratch — we’re here to make your next move easy.
Let’s get moving!
Cheers,
The WBR Team
Pick of the Month
The “Gillies” — a 1950s classic with room for everyone
This beautifully kept 1950s weatherboard home brings four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a generous ~155sqm (approx.) footprint—complete with native timber floors, wooden joinery and a huge open living space that’s perfect for family life.
Great value, made easy
Asking price is $140,000, which includes piling and a two-piece move within 100km (conditions apply). That’s the house, the move and piles—sorted.
Character, comfort, and flexibility
Painted weatherboards, classic windows, and original detailing deliver loads of charm, while the practical layout (four bedrooms, two baths + separate toilet) keeps day-to-day living simple.
Where from?
Currently located in Epsom, Auckland, ready to relocate to your section. Quotes are available for longer distances or specialised foundations.
Keen to learn more? Call 0508 237 866 or visit our website at www.waikatobr.co.nz to send an enquiry.
Don’t miss your chance to secure a spacious 1950s classic with modern reassurance and a straightforward relocation package.
Granny Flat Legislation Passes - What You Need to Know
The Government has passed new legislation to make it easier to build small standalone dwellings, commonly known as granny flats. From early 2026, homeowners will be able to construct a single-storey granny flat of up to 70 square metres without needing a building consent, giving Kiwis more flexible, multi-generational living options without unnecessary complexity.
What is a Granny Flat?
A granny flat (also known as a minor dwelling) is a small secondary home built on a property that already has a legal primary residence. It shares the same site as the main house and is designed for independent living — often for parents, whānau, or adult children.
The new law is intended to make it easier for Kiwis to create flexible, multi-generational living options on their existing land, without unnecessary red tape or lengthy consent processes.
What You’ll Be Able to Build
The exemption will apply to small, single-storey, standalone dwellings — as long as they meet a few key requirements:
Have a floor area of up to 70m² and be built on a code-compliant foundation
Use lightweight construction materials, with work signed off by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
Include rigid plumbing, with all plumbing, gas, and electrical work carried out by licensed tradespeople
Have a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) from the council in place before building
If any of these criteria aren’t met, a full building consent will still be required.
What Doesn’t Qualify
The exemption does not apply to:
Tiny homes on wheels – any dwelling built on a trailer, chassis, or other movable base
Container homes or imported expandable homes that don’t comply with the NZ Building Code
Two-storey or architecturally complex homes – the exemption only covers simple, single-storey designs
Uncertified DIY kitsets or foldable homes that haven’t been designed, engineered, and signed off to NZ Building Code standards by an LBP
What kinds of homes can actually be moved?
Moving a home is more common than you’d think. Most timber-framed, single-storey houses are excellent candidates. Some two-storey and brick-veneer homes can also be moved with smart methods (splitting the structure or lowering the roof line). The key is access, route, and structure — if we can safely support it and get it to your site, there’s a good chance we can move it.
Quick suitability checklist
Construction: Timber frame = ideal. Brick veneer or heavier claddings may require extra planning.
Storeys: Single is simplest; two-storey often possible with a split move.
Width/height: Can the route handle over-dimensional loads after a safe split/roof lower?
Access: Room for trucks, dollies and lifting gear at both ends.
Condition: Sound foundations and framing; no major structural failure.
Even when a house is split into two (or more) sections for transport, it’s re-joined on new foundations at your site and finished to a tidy, weather-tight standard.
Curious if your home or a listing you’ve seen is suitable? Reply to this email or call 0508 237 866 for a quick feasibility chat.
Discover Your Next Relocatable Home
Explore our selection of unique homes—character villas, compact dwellings, and family-sized houses—all ready for relocation across the Waikato region. From charming 1930s villas to fresh, modern bungalows, each property offers flexibility, value, and the chance to personalise and preserve heritage. Click here to see full details, pricing, and transport options.
Stay Connected
Share with us what you're looking for in a house, and we'll help find it! Let us know how many bedrooms you need, the size you're after, and which features are important to you. Whether it's for a second dwelling, staff accommodation, or a bach, we're here to help. Reach out today to secure your move and receive a free quote! Want to see what we’re up to? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, new listings, and a behind-the-scenes look at our latest moves.
