Keep your family close, without losing your space. With NZ’s new 2026 Granny Flat laws, adding a luxury retreat for your loved ones is now faster and easier than ever. See how Elsewhere Pods turns 'impossible' into 'installed'.
As the CEO and visionary behind Elsewhere Pods, Matt Decarne said that it is a milestone moment to lead our expansion into the New Zealand market. We aren't just selling structures; we are providing a "hassle-free, stylish way to help solve NZ's housing squeeze".
”With the Building and Construction (Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Amendment Act 2025 now in full effect as of January 2026, we are perfectly positioned to turn New Zealand backyards and wild landscapes into premium living spaces.”
The 2026 Regulatory Revolution
The new legislation is the "smarter system" we have been waiting for. By removing the requirement for building consents for standalone units up to 70m², the government has cleared the path for our modular, prefabricated "plug-and-play" installation.
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Speed to Market: Our pods can be installed in as little as 3-4 days.
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Compliance: While the administrative friction is gone, our commitment to the NZ Building Code remains absolute, utilizing licensed professionals for all oversight.
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Infrastructure: While consents are minimized, we remain transparent with clients about Development Contributions (DCs) and the need for council notification via a PIM.
Dual-Market Growth Strategy
Our expansion focuses on two high-growth pillars that align with Kiwi values of family (Whānau) and nature.
1. The Granny Flat Market (Urban & Lifestyle)
We are targeting homeowners in high-pressure regions like Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Queenstown, where rental shortages are acute.
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Investment Framing: We position a pod not as an expense, but as an asset that adds prestige and property value.
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ROI Focus: For income-seekers, an Elsewhere Pod can pay for itself in 1-2 years via high-yield short-term rentals.
2. Eco-Tourism & Glamping
With NZ’s glamping sector growing at 15% annually, we offer a "Business in a Box".
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Off-Grid Excellence: Our pods feature solar power, rainwater systems, and composting toilets, allowing "anywhere installation" on mountain ridges or forest clearings.
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100% Pure Alignment: Our low-impact, off-ground installation ensures we "tread lightly" on the land, matching NZ's global environmental brand
How this aligns with Elsewhere Pods
This reform closely aligns with how Elsewhere Pods is designed to operate.
Our modular, prefabricated system is built for speed, efficiency and quality control. By shifting approval away from lengthy consent processes and toward professional accountability, the new legislation supports the kind of construction approach we already use.
Pods under 70m² can now be delivered faster without compromising on safety or build standards. Our designs are developed to meet Building Code requirements, with licensed professionals involved throughout the process. That means customers benefit from reduced red tape while still receiving a high quality, durable home.
For intergenerational living, rural accommodation and small scale intensification, this reform removes one of the biggest barriers to getting started. It allows landowners to make better use of their sites and bring flexible housing online sooner.
This is not about cutting corners. It is about removing unnecessary friction and focusing on good design, responsible building and practical outcomes.
Ready to utilise the new legislation
Ready to take advantage? Start building your custom pod in our 3D Configurator today and see how 70m² of luxury fits on your land or Contact Us.
