Fencing is one of NZ's most common home improvement projects — and the Fencing Act creates specific obligations around shared boundary fences. Here's what fencing costs in NZ in 2026 by type, and what you need to know before starting.
Fencing Cost NZ 2026 (Supply and Install, Per Metre)
| Fence type | Typical cost per lm |
|---|---|
| Timber paling fence (1.8m high) | $150–$280/lm |
| Timber picket fence (1.2m high) | $100–$200/lm |
| Corrugated steel / Colorbond (1.8m) | $180–$320/lm |
| Aluminium slat fence (1.8m) | $250–$500/lm |
| Concrete panel fence (1.8m) | $200–$400/lm |
| Post and rail (farm/rural, 3 rails) | $30–$80/lm |
| Pool fence — aluminium (1.2m) | $200–$400/lm |
| Pool fence — glass (1.2m) | $400–$900/lm |
| Gate — timber (standard single) | $400–$900 each |
| Gate — aluminium/steel (single) | $600–$1,500 each |
| Gate — automated sliding (driveway) | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Post replacement (per post) | $150–$400 |
All prices GST inclusive. Auckland 10–20% above national average. Prices assume reasonably level ground with standard soil. Rock, hard clay, slopes, and difficult access increase cost significantly.
The NZ Fencing Act 1978
The Fencing Act governs shared boundary fences between adjoining properties. Key points:
Shared cost: Unless otherwise agreed, the cost of a sufficient fence on a shared boundary is split equally (50/50) between neighbours. A "sufficient fence" is defined as one adequate for the purpose of the property.
Notice required: Before starting a fence, you should serve a written notice on your neighbour (a "Fencing Notice") stating: what fence you propose, where it will be built, and what share of cost you expect from them. They have 21 days to respond.
Agreement vs dispute: If neighbours agree, proceed on agreed terms. If they dispute the type or cost, there is a dispute resolution process through the Disputes Tribunal.
Exceptions: Fencing Act obligations don't apply between residential properties and reserve, road, or public land. Some neighbours agree informally without serving formal notices — fine if both agree.
Key practical note: Get your neighbour's written agreement before ordering materials or starting work. Disputes after installation are harder and more expensive to resolve.
Timber Paling Fences — The Most Common NZ Choice
Timber paling is the dominant boundary fence type in NZ — affordable, easily repaired, and looks good when maintained.
Construction: H4 treated pine posts (100×100mm or 125×125mm) set in concrete, with horizontal rails and vertical palings (typically 90mm or 100mm H3 treated pine).
Post spacing: Typically 1.8–2.4m between posts. Closer spacing (1.8m) is stronger and better for exposed locations.
Life expectancy: 15–25 years with reasonable maintenance. Painting or staining extends life significantly.
What drives cost: - Post setting depth (harder ground = harder post holes) - Palings: basic $5–$8 each vs premium $10–$18 each - Post caps and capping rails (improve weathering and appearance) - Height: 1.2m vs 1.8m changes materials and labour
Aluminium Slat Fences — Growing in Popularity
Powder-coated aluminium slat fences have grown significantly in NZ — they're low maintenance, modern-looking, and last 30+ years.
Advantages over timber: - No rot, no painting, no warping - Wide colour choice (powder coat in any RAL colour) - Strong and consistent finish
Disadvantages: - Higher upfront cost (typically 50–80% more than timber) - Less repairable if a section is damaged — usually need to replace a panel - Less character than natural timber
Best for: Low-maintenance-oriented homeowners, modern homes, rental properties, coastal areas where timber degrades faster.
Concrete Panel Fences
Precast concrete panels (Formcast, Firth, and similar NZ manufacturers) offer excellent durability and noise reduction.
Popular uses: Boundaries alongside roads (noise), dividing walls between properties where maximum privacy and sound reduction is needed, retaining fence combinations.
Characteristics: Very heavy and permanent — not typically moved. Good security and noise reduction. Requires substantial post foundations (often steel H-posts set in concrete) for stability.
Pool Fencing Requirements in NZ
Pool fencing in NZ is governed by the Building Act and NZ Building Code clause F9. Requirements: - 1.2m minimum height above the ground on the pool side - Non-climbable zone (NCZ): 900mm clear zone on the outside of the fence — no climbable objects within this zone - Self-closing, self-latching gates (latch on pool side, 1.5m minimum above ground) - Gaps: Maximum 100mm between vertical elements; maximum 10mm horizontal gap at the base
Building consent is required for new pool fencing. Your local council inspects and issues a CCC.
Glass pool fencing: Requires toughened or laminated glass panels (AS/NZS 2208 safety glazing). Premium appearance; higher cost. Frameless: $600–$900/lm. Semi-frameless: $400–$700/lm.
Finding a Fencing Contractor
What to look for: - Local contractor with references in your area - Written quote with post size, timber treatment specification, and fixing method - Experience with relevant fence type (pool fencing requires knowledge of Building Code) - Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) if pool fencing consent is involved
Questions to ask: 1. What timber grade and treatment are you using for posts and palings? 2. How deep are posts set and how are they fixed (concrete, postcrete, direct)? 3. Is the quote inclusive of GST and disposal of old materials? 4. For pool fencing: are you familiar with NZ Building Code F9 requirements? 5. Can you show me examples of similar fencing work nearby?
Find fencing contractors: Fencing NZ | Post Your Job Free
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a fence cost in NZ per metre? Timber paling (1.8m high): $150–$280/lm installed. Aluminium slat (1.8m): $250–$500/lm. Colorbond/corrugated steel: $180–$320/lm. Concrete panel: $200–$400/lm. These are supply-and-install prices including posts, concrete, and GST.
Who pays for a fence between neighbours in NZ? Under the Fencing Act 1978, the cost of a sufficient boundary fence is normally split 50/50 between adjoining property owners. You must serve a Fencing Notice before starting. If your neighbour agrees, you share costs. If they dispute, there's a process through the Disputes Tribunal.
How long does a timber fence last in NZ? A well-built timber paling fence using H4 posts and H3 palings: 15–25 years. Regular painting or staining extends life. Coastal areas (salt air) shorten life to 10–15 years. Using premium hardwood posts (kwila or similar) extends post life significantly.
Do I need council consent for a fence in NZ? Standard residential boundary fences up to 2m high generally don't require building consent. Fences over 2m, retaining fences, and pool fencing require building consent. Some council district plans also restrict fence heights or materials in certain zones — check with your local council for specific rules.
What is the best low-maintenance fence for NZ? Aluminium slat (powder-coated): 30+ years, no painting, no rot. Concrete panel: 40+ years, essentially maintenance-free. Colorbond steel: 20–30 years, occasional washing. All significantly lower maintenance than timber. Higher upfront cost but lower lifetime cost.
Related: Fence Painting Cost NZ | Retaining Wall Cost NZ | Landscaper Auckland NZ