Fences

On a case-by case basis, when a private owner plans to build a new fence or make improvements to an existing fence between our property and theirs, Kāinga Ora will consider contributing up to half of the cost.

Before the work commences, we must receive a written request and certain information about the proposed fence.

The planning and arranging of the work remain the responsibility of the private owner, however we do set minimum standards for safety and quality.

Kāinga Ora prefers timber or pool-style fences, generally no higher than 1.2 metres although other fence types will be considered if appropriate and cost-effective.

What you need to provide to Kāinga Ora

You will need to provide the following details to us:

• your name and contact details
• your full address including city and suburb, and the address of the Kāinga Ora property
• a diagram or aerial photo with markings showing the boundary line/parts of the boundary line that you plan to replace or erect a new fence on
• photos of the current condition of the fence/boundary (or lack thereof)
• the type of fence that you intend to build (including how long and high, the materials to be used and the footing details)
• what the fence will cost, and whether you want Kāinga Ora to contribute and, if so, how much
• two separate quotes from qualified professionals for the fencing work you want to have done.

When you have collected this information you can:

• email: PropertyManagementService@kaingaora.govt.nz
  or
• post to:
  Property Management Service Team
  Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities
  National Office
  PO Box 2628
  Wellington 6140

Once we receive your request we will arrange to visit and view where you propose putting the fence. If we agree with the details of your request, we will send you an acceptance letter within 21 working days. Otherwise, we will contact you to discuss your request and any alternative options.

Standard design specifications

The proposed fence must comply with the Building Code and must meet Kāinga Ora minimum fencing specifications.

• Fencing specifications [PDF, 163 KB]

Driveway fences

To provide sight lines so drivers can see children, it is recommended that where the fence is alongside a drive or right of way, that the fence maintains sight lines to each side of the driveway where it approaches the footpath. 

Lowering the height to no more than 1.2 metres or using a see-through fence style such as a pool fence, will decrease the risk to children from reversing cars.

Timber fences

Use radiata pine H3.2 to New Zealand Standard NZS 3602, merchantable grade to NZS 3631, H4 treated for ground contact timbers.

Fences to 1.2 metres in height

• Posts: 100mm x 75 mm, 600mm minimum, set in concrete.
• Rails: Two rails each 100mm x 50mm across the face of the posts.  Rails to be fixed at each post with one 12mm galvanised coach bolt with washer passing through a halving joint. Rails to be edge fixed.
• All palings to be 50mm off the ground.

Fences to 1.8 metres in height

• Posts: 100mm x 100mm, 700mm minimum in concrete.
• Rails: Three rails each 100mm x 50mm across the face of the posts.  Rails to be fixed at each post with one 12mm galvanised coach bolt with washer passing through a halving joint. Rails to be edge fixed.
• All palings to be 50mm off the ground. 

Pool-style fences

• All steel components to be hot dip galvanised after fabrication.  Electro galvanising or pre-galvanising is not permitted.
• No sharp tops or spikes to be used on panels.
• Fixings to be stainless steel.
• Post to be hot dipped galvanised or timber as for timber fence.
• Any sheet metal clad fences with a sharp top must have a securely fastened U flashing inverted over the top edge to prevent injury.

Masonry fences

Masonry fences must be constructed on a continuous reinforced concrete foundation compliant with the Building Code. The foundation must be capable of preventing any rotation in the fence for the intended life of the fence.