How Much Does It Cost To Renovate A Kitchen In NZ? 2021

An average cost for renovating a kitchen in New Zealand is between $22,000 and $30,000 if you are renovating with a renovation company. Kitchen renovation cost NZ wide can differ based on the company you choose or if you are doing a DIY job. You will save money if you are doing a DIY job but they can be risky if you are not a trained professional. Costs to renovate a kitchen depend on various factors. The intention to renovate or your reason to renovate the kitchen is one of the major factors that will determine your budget.
If you are renovating to sell then we recommend you to renovate using standard mid range materials and not customise your renovation too much. If you are renovating to add comfort or increase the functionality of your kitchen then we recommend our clients to go for more quality products so that you can enjoy your kitchen for a much longer time.
We have created a comprehensive guide for cost of kitchen renovation in New Zealand which list all the factors that contribute to the overall cost for your kitchen. Whether you are doing a DIY job or doing a luxury kitchen renovation, this guide will help you on your research before you renovate your kitchen.
1. What is the average cost of a renovated kitchen in 2021?
An average cost to renovate your kitchen in 2021 is approximately around $22,908. However, if you are creating your dream kitchen then you can expect to spend between $17,664 to $29,256. The total cost of a kitchen will depend on the cost of cabinets, appliances, countertop, flooring, quality of materials, labour and if there is a change in layout.
Average Range : $17,664 – $29,256
Minimum Cost : $16,832
Average Cost : $22,908
2. Kitchen Renovation Cost NZ
As you can see the table above is a good representation of costs for small to big projects. Small projects include changing your cabinet doors, applying a new coat of paint or simple changing your splashback. Bigger projects will include demolishing your existing kitchen and redoing the kitchen. Full kitchen renovation projects mean that you have to custom built your cabinets, install new benchtops, change your flooring, installing a new splashback, changing your lights, and installing new kitchen appliances. the cost will depend on the type of materials you choose, if there is any change in layout and the size of your kitchen. Projects such as these will start from $41,000+ at a minimum.
So, how much does each item in a Kitchen renovation cost in NZ?
The cost for a kitchen renovation will depends on what you want in your kitchen. If you see the table below, the table will show you how much you can expect to spend on each item of your kitchen. This breakdown will help you see your estimated spending cost and is a good guide for budgeting your renovation.
Item: Budget % = Average Cost
Cabinetry : 28% = $9,039
Installation & Labour: 18% = $5,695
Appliances: 15% = $4,678
Countertops & Backsplash: 11% = $3,381
Flooring: 7% = $2,2771
Lighting: 5% = $1,449
Painting: 5% = $1,587
Windows & Doors: 4% =$1408
Designer: 3% = $994
Plumbing : 3% = $1007
Other: 1% = $428
3. Cost for renovating a kitchen per square meter.




This is just an average estimated cost guide to help you plan before choosing to renovate. Most clients, however, do not fit into these three distinct categories. They often pick various aspects from each category to make a kitchen that is unique to them.
If you wish to keep your kitchen layout the same but want to make a few changes then that will incur an additional cost. The reason that a change in layout means additional costs is because the area needs new plumbing as well as re-wiring which need counsel approval. Any council approval will require architectural drawings, documentation, and inspection. The additional cost for this could lie between $2,070 – $6,210.
Budget-Friendly Tip- Repair your kitchen cabinets and doors. Try polishing and restoring countertops instead of paying for new materials.
4. How much does it cost to remodel a small kitchen renovation in NZ?


This small kitchen (pictured above) was renovated in Greenlane, Auckland. Joanna and Steve had a closed in and old kitchen which needed an upgrade. We demolished a wall to make it more open plan and chose a neutral theme to make the kitchen look more airy and light. See Joanna and Steve’s full project details + before and after photos here.
10’x10’ vs 12’x12’
Let us talk about what it would cost you in terms of square meters. For a 10’x10’, which is between 75 to 100+ square feet, you will be spending between $20,700 to $47,400. In comparison, if your kitchen size is 12’x12’, which is an average size for a small kitchen then remodeling it will cost you between $27,600 to $62,100.
5. How much does it cost to remodel a large kitchen in NZ?
For a large kitchen renovation (18 or more square meter) it will cost between $62,000 and $138,000. This could also include extensive work like double appliances, a double island, butler’s pantry and change in layout.


Project specifications (Pictured above) – Mary Stuart’s previous kitchen was old and closed off. We demolished the wall that was separating the kitchen from the living room to create a large open planned kitchen in a rustic style. See full project specs + Before and After
Expert tip Renovation Companies-
Managing a kitchen renovation means that you will have to coordinate all different trades like carpenters to build cabinets, product suppliers, flooring installers, electricians, plumbers, painters, plasterers, designers, and kitchen installers. You will have to manage the trades, their timelines and resolve any conflict that may arise. However, most people do not have the time to manage a project effectively and they prefer employing a company that can manage the entire project for them. Such renovation companies usually provide all the labour involved, have designers, supply materials, and provide appliances at trade prices. They have a project manager that coordinates supplier deliveries, manages all trades and ensures that the renovation is running in regards to the timeline.
6. How much do Renovation Companies charge you?



Custom built stone engineered countertop used for Mary’s kitchen. We made this engineered stone look like pattered granite with a shiny sheen. The pattern chosen above is called Autumn leaf and like its name has yellow and mustard undertones which complements the dark cabinets well.
For an affordable countertop, try using laminate, or stone engineered countertop. Stone Engineered countertop means man made stone which can be made into marble or granite. When it comes to cost, they are more likely to work for Basic and Mid-range kitchens. The total cost you will be spending on your countertop will be around $2760 to $6210. If budget is not a problem, then you can opt for natural stone like marble or granite. This cost for this will start from about $4000 and can go up till $7,000. If you are getting a luxury renovation, then you can also think about getting a concrete countertop. Concrete countertops are great for contemporary homes but are an expensive choice as they can range anywhere between $9,000 and $20,000.
The table below will show you the range of countertops that are provided and the cost.
Countertop Material: Cost per Square meter
Ceramic Tile: $76.70- $153.30
Acrylic: $30.10- $416.10
Formica: $230- $460
Laminate: $383- $613
Bamboo: $383.3 – $920
Solid Surface: $497.8- $924
Butcher Block: $613.3- $920
Corian: $613.3- $920
Concrete: $613.3- $1,226.7
Soapstone: $613.3- $1,303.3
Marble Cost: $613.3 – $1,533.3
Caesarstone: $613.3- $1,533.3
Paper stone: $613.3- $1,533.3
Granite Cost: $766.7 – $1,533.3
Terrazzo: $766.7 – $1,533.3
Quartz Cost: $766.7 – $1,533.3
Onyx: $766.7 – $3,066.7
Limestone: $996.7- $2,300.00
Glass: $1,226.7- $1,533.3
Copper: $1,533.3- $1,993.3
Budget-friendly Tip-
If you are looking for a cheaper option for your countertop then try and using your existing countertop and simply repair any damage that exists.
Countertop professionals can provide restoring service, and this cost you around $110.40 – $2,208.
Kitchen Splashbacks
Splashbacks is a key element in a kitchen as it makes cleaning easier. It is often found on the wall behind your stove so it can catch any splatters while cooking. Splashbacks should usually be made with materials that are easy to clean like glass, large tiles with lesser grout lines or engineered stones.




Mary Stuart’s design brief was to have a kitchen which looked like a Spanish Villa. This meant that we needed hardwood flooring. However, as hardwood floors are very hard to maintain we installed woodgrain tiles instead. These tiles look like wood and feel like wood but are far easier to maintain than hardwood floors.
7. Cost of hiring a designer for your kitchen makeover in NZ.
Some people might think that getting a designer is not necessary when renovating their kitchen. In some cases, renovation companies recommend getting a designer involved especially if they are going for a mid to luxury kitchen renovation. Designers can advise you on textures, colours, materials, and styles that are popular today. A designer will also create 3D models as well as rendering model of your kitchen with all the paint, materials, door handles, countertops, and appliances so you are able to visualise what your kitchen will look like after the renovation. A renovation company often has their own in-house designers that will work with the project managers throughout the renovation, so your drawings are turned into a living reality.
Certified designers charge about $6,900+ or an average of $138 to $276 per hour in Auckland.
8. How much does Labour cost for renovating your kitchen?
9. How to remodel a kitchen on a budget?
10. Return on Investment (ROI) on a Kitchen Makeover in NZ
11. 6 Tips on planning your Kitchen Renovation.
12. How to choose the right renovation company in Auckland?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen renovation cost?
An average kitchen in Auckland will be between $22,000 - $30,000 if you are renovating with a renovation company. To see all the factors that determine the cost for a kitchen renovation you can read our kitchen cost guide : https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/kitchen-renovation-cost-nz/
