Our Range Explained | Granny Flats, Minor Dwellings & Sleepouts NZ

Our Range Explained | Granny Flats, Minor Dwellings & Sleepouts NZ

October 23, 20253 min read

The Smart Way to Choose Your NZ Small Home

Not all small homes are the same. The right choice depends on your land, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
At Granny Flat NZ, we design and build high-quality, consent-ready dwellings that fit your property and your plans — whether that’s a space for family, a guest suite, or a new income stream.

Here’s a simple breakdown of each type in our range.

Our Range Explained

Book a Free Consultation

1. Granny Flats

Granny flats are self-contained small homes — typically between 30 m² and 65 m² — built on the same site as your main dwelling.

Best for:

  • Parents, adult children, or guests who need independent space

  • Multi-generational living

  • Secondary income through renting

Features:

  • Full kitchen, bathroom, and laundry

  • One or two bedrooms

  • Indoor–outdoor flow for natural light and comfort

Why choose it: Offers privacy and independence while staying close to family.

2. Minor Dwellings

Minor dwellings are similar to granny flats but often allow slightly larger footprints or more design flexibility, depending on council zoning.

Best for:

  • Property owners wanting a permanent secondary home

  • Long-term rental or extended family housing

Features:

  • Complete self-contained home with kitchen, bathroom, and living areas

  • Designed to comply with your district plan

  • High-quality finishes and insulation for NZ conditions

Why choose it: Adds real property value and long-term flexibility — ideal for growing families or investors.

3. Transportable Homes

Transportable homes are fully constructed in our factory, then delivered to your site ready to connect.

Best for:

  • Rural sections or remote areas

  • Buyers who want a fast, weather-proof build

  • Those planning future relocation or resale flexibility

Features:

  • Built to NZ Building Code (NZS 3604)

  • Lower site disruption and faster turnaround

  • Custom layouts and finishes

Why choose it: Modern, efficient, and relocatable — built with NZ craftsmanship, delivered ready to move in.

4. Sleepouts

Sleepouts are compact cabins or studios (usually under 30 m²) that often don’t require building consent under MBIE Schedule 1 exemptions.

Best for:

  • Teen retreats, guest rooms, or home offices

  • Hobby spaces or Airbnb accommodation

Features:

  • Single-room or ensuite options

  • Fully insulated and pre-finished

  • Optional kitchenette or storage fit-outs

Why choose it: Fast, affordable, and flexible — add space without major construction.

(Reference: MBIE Building Work Consent Not Required (Schedule 1))

Which Option Is Right for You?

Ask yourself:

  • Who will use the space? Family, tenants, or guests?

  • How permanent is the need? Long-term dwelling or flexible space?

  • What does your site allow? Check access, slope, and zoning.

  • What’s your consent threshold? Some small builds may be exempt.

💡 Tip: Our design team can assess your section and recommend the best fit before you commit to plans or consents.

Why Choose Granny Flat NZ

  • NZ-made, NZ-compliant — every build meets local standards.

  • Transparent process — from design to delivery, with no surprises.

  • Customisable options — layouts, finishes, and energy efficiency to suit your lifestyle.

  • Fast, efficient builds — thanks to modular off-site construction.

Our goal is simple: make quality small-home living easier for New Zealanders.

Book a Free Consultation Now!

Back to Blog