Big Changes Ahead: Overseas Construction Materials Approved for Use in NZ
- Aiming for overseas building materials to be approved for use in NZ from late 2025
- Approved products must meet trusted international standards
- Aims to reduce construction costs and material shortages
- Products will still need to comply with the NZ Building Code
- Changes support faster builds and greater material choice for homeowners and builders
- Increased access to innovative materials and global suppliers
The New Zealand construction industry is set for a significant shake-up, overseas building materials will soon be easier to import and use, thanks to changes announced by the Government in April 2025. This move aims to reduce material shortages, bring down construction costs, and support faster building timelines, something both builders and homeowners can get behind.
At Villaworx Construction, we stay on top of every update in building standards and regulations to ensure our clients get the most efficient, cost-effective builds without compromising on quality. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes to material approvals, and what it means for your next project.
What’s Changing with Construction Material Approvals?
Under current rules, overseas building products and materials must go through New Zealand’s certification and compliance process, which has historically been slow, costly, and restrictive. Many materials already proven safe and effective in countries like Australia, the UK, and the EU haven’t made it to the NZ market due to red tape.
That’s now set to change.
The aim is from late 2025, the Government will allow certain international standards to be recognised, streamlining the approval of overseas materials. This change is part of the Building Law Reform Programme and is aimed at increasing competition and improving supply chain resilience.
Key Benefits of the New Overseas Materials Policy
- More Choice – A broader range of products and suppliers for Kiwi builders
- Lower Costs – Increased competition could help reduce pricing pressures on local materials
- Faster Builds – Fewer delays due to material shortages or limited local supply
- Maintained Safety Standards – Only products that meet recognised international standards will be approved
- Supports Innovation – Access to new technologies and advanced materials from global markets
How Will Products Be Approved?
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will implement a framework to allow the use of materials that meet equivalent overseas standards, such as:
- Australian/New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS)
- European Standards (EN)
- British Standards (BS)
- U.S. codes and certifications where relevant
The process will still require rigorous safety and performance assessment, but it will be faster and more efficient than the current local-only pathway.
For more details on how products will be approved, MBIE provides updated guidance here:
What This Means for Homeowners and Builders
For homeowners, this is great news. It could mean shorter build times, lower costs, and more flexibility when choosing finishes, fixtures, or structural materials. For builders like Villaworx Construction, it means we can deliver even better results with fewer hold-ups and more options.
We expect to see a wider variety of approved cladding systems, insulation materials, roofing products, and fixings, all without sacrificing the quality or compliance that New Zealand projects demand.
Will This Compromise Build Quality?
Not at all. All imported products must still comply with the NZ Building Code and be fit for purpose in our local conditions. MBIE will oversee the process, ensuring that only reputable, tested, and safe materials make it into Kiwi homes and buildings.
At Villaworx Construction, we will continue to prioritise quality, durability, and compliance, whether we’re using local materials or those approved from overseas sources.
Looking Ahead
The integration of overseas construction materials is a step forward for the industry. It supports innovation, increases affordability, and helps builders meet growing demand.
Whether you’re planning a new build or renovation, Villaworx Construction can help. Get in touch today!