The Truth About m² Rates When Building in Queenstown
When planning a new home, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“What’s your cost per square metre?”
It’s a fair question—but the reality is, square metre (m²) rates can be dangerously misleading when it comes to estimating the true cost of building a quality home in Queenstown.
Why m² Rates Don’t Tell the Whole Story
While an average m² rate may provide a vague ballpark, it almost never reflects what’s actually included. Builders often leave out key elements to appear competitive—only for clients to be hit with unexpected costs later.
Here are just some of the critical items that may or may not be included in a quoted m² rate:
Architectural drawings & engineering
Building and resource consent fees
Development contributions (paid to council)
Outdoor elements like fireplaces, pizza ovens or BBQs
Retaining walls and boundary fencing
Driveways and concrete paths
Landscaping (soft and hard scaping)
Outdoor lighting and irrigation
Curtains, blinds, and wardrobe fit-outs
Window and door joinery upgrades
Heating and cooling systems (e.g. underfloor heating or ducted heat pumps)
High-spec claddings, roofing, and insulation
Solar and energy solutions
Septic or stormwater systems for rural builds
Pool or spa infrastructure
Interior design services and lighting plans
Appliance packages
The Real Question: What’s Included?
Rather than comparing m² rates, the better question to ask your builder is:
"What exactly is included in the price?"
If you’re comparing builders, make sure you're comparing apples with apples. A low m² rate might simply reflect a stripped-back build with minimal allowances—meaning you’ll have to pay for those excluded items anyway, either during construction or afterward.
What You Should Focus On
Choose a builder who is transparent about costs
Make sure all the key features of your home are accounted for
Look for someone who provides a clear scope of work and realistic allowance
Prioritise someone who listens to your needs, not just your budget
Why It Matters More in Queenstown
With Queenstown’s unique landscape, steep sites, premium expectations, and strict building regulations, square metre rates are less relevant than ever. Every site and design is different, and so are the associated costs.
Work With a Builder You Trust
At Toitoi Residential, we don’t believe in smoke and mirrors. We believe in clarity, collaboration, and craftsmanship. Our goal is to deliver your vision with no hidden surprises—just beautiful, functional homes tailored to how you live.
So instead of chasing the lowest m² rate, focus on working with a builder who delivers what they promise—on time, on budget, and without compromise.
Thinking About Building?
Chat to the team at Toitoi Residential, Queenstown’s trusted builder. We’ll help you break down your budget based on your full vision, not just a generic rate.