What to Look for When Hiring a Stonemason in NZ
- Portfolio of stone work matching your project
- Mortar specification compatible with the stone type
- LBP for structural work
- Experience with NZ stone (schist, bluestone, granite)
- Drainage design for dry-stack walls
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Incompatible mortar mix for stone type
- No experience with your stone material
- No LBP for structural walls
- No drainage detail for retaining walls
Typical Costs Across NZ
Natural stone wall: $350β$700/mΒ² installed. Stone paving: $200β$450/mΒ². Heritage restoration: $400β$900/mΒ²
Costs vary significantly by city β Auckland and Queenstown are typically the most expensive, while Invercargill and Dunedin are among the most affordable.
Licensing Requirements
LBP required for structural stone work. Heritage work may require special consent. Check the register β