2025 survey results
We surveyed around 1,000 Master Builders members and their homeowners.
Homeowners told us that, even in challenging conditions, building can be a rewarding experience. Two-thirds had a positive journey, which speaks to the professionalism of our Master Builders across the country.
There are signs we are entering a new phase of the economic cycle – one that still carries risk, but also real momentum. Whilst the recovery is patchy, and some builders are still finding it tough, there is a sense that the sector is shifting from surviving, to delivering at a scale that secures the future, and the country’s growth trajectory.
Homeowner experiences positive overall
Despite a tough few years for the construction sector, most New Zealand homeowners described their recent build as a positive experience:
- Two-thirds were satisfied overall.
- 72% reported no significant delays.
- 87% would recommend building to others.
When there were delays, they were most often caused by factors beyond the builder’s control:
- consenting (56%)
- subcontractor availability (26%)
- weather (24%)
- product / material delays (16%)
- scope or design changes (6%)
- finance-related hold-ups (3%)
Most projects came in on or under budget, with only 37% running over, mainly due to:
- scope and design changes
- unclear initial estimates
- product price increases.
Homeowners identified clear ways to reduce overruns, including:
- more detailed initial pricing
- clearer optional upgrades
- early conversations about escalation clauses
- regular budget tracking.
Communication remains pivotal: 93% rated good communication as very important.
We offer practical advice for homeowners to help make their new build or renovation a success.
Building and renovating your dream spaces
Construction sector showing cautious optimism
Builders are starting to take a more positive view of the year ahead:
- 63% think the overall economy will improve within 12 months.
- 62% expect their own businesses to be in better shape by the end of 2026.
This is showing up in workloads, with 64% of builder reporting strong or steady order books, up from 51% last year. Those facing a critical drop‑off in work have fallen to 11% from 15%.
Conditions remain uneven, with the Southern region improving more quickly whilst Wellington and Auckland still face headwinds.
The most critical constraints for the sector were:
- rising construction costs
- finance (inflation and high interest rates)
- government regulation
- council consenting
- soft consumer demand.
Consenting delays continue to hinder productivity for builders:
- 70% percent work with more than one Building Consent Authority.
- 72% have experienced ‘stop‑the‑clock’ requests beyond the 20‑day statutory timeline.
- One in four faced 10 or more requests for additional information before achieving Code Compliance Certificate.
Advocating for practical improvements
Builders and homeowners are telling the same story: when consenting works, communication is clear, and finance is accessible, projects move faster, and experiences are better.
Master Builders supports practical steps that restore confidence and lift delivery, including:
- executing consenting reform well
- collaboration and common standards across Building Consent Authorities
- embedding proportionate liability
- implementing risk appropriate certification for low‑risk homes backed by a building guarantee
- accelerating the adoption of proven digital inspection and site‑evidence tools.
Previous State of the Sector insights