New Rules, New Opportunities for 2026

As we move further into 2026, we are seeing not just an upward trend in building activity, but significant changes in how we build, driven by new government regulations and environmental realities.

Here is a look at the latest updates from MBIE and what they mean for your next project in Cambridge, Auckland, or the wider Waikato.

1. The "Granny Flat" Exemption.

One of the most significant recent changes from MBIE is the "Ready, steady, go for Granny Flats" initiative, which took effect in January. The new exemptions for building consents on minor residential units (up to 60 square metres) have opened the door for property owners to add value and space more easily than ever before.

Where Nemean fits in:
While the consent process has been streamlined, the need for structural integrity remains absolute. Building Code compliance is still mandatory. Whether you are adding a unit for family or rental income, Nemean provides the bespoke structural design to ensure these smaller dwellings are safe, durable, and perfectly suited to your specific site conditions.

2. Resilience is No Longer Optional

January 2026 brought severe weather events that activated the Temporary Accommodation Service and highlighted the vulnerability of our built environment. These events serve as a stark reminder that "upward movement" in construction must be paired with resilience.

We are seeing a push from the sector—and emphasized by MBIE’s ongoing work on seismic risk and safer buildings—to move beyond minimum standards. In regions like the Waikato and Auckland, Nemean is prioritizing:

• Site-Specific Engineering: Analysing ground conditions to mitigate flood and stability risks.

• Material Durability: Selecting materials that can withstand Aotearoa’s changing climate.

Whether you are taking advantage of the new granny flat rules or embarking on a complex commercial build, the regulatory environment is changing.

Let’s build something that isn't just compliant, but enduring.