How much does landscape a section cost in Wellington?

In Wellington, landscape a section typically costs between $6,000 and $210,000 in 2026, depending on spec and site. Wellington's Very High and Extra High wind zones and seismic foundations add bracing and engineering most flat sites elsewhere don't need.

Do landscapers need a licence in NZ?

No — landscaping is unregulated. Landscaping NZ membership is voluntary. Verify the company on Companies Office and ask for portfolio references.

How much do I budget for plants?

Roughly 25-40% of a typical landscape budget goes to plants. Mature trees disproportionately expensive.

When's the best time to landscape in NZ?

Autumn (March-May) and early spring (Aug-Oct) are best — soil's warm, rain is reliable, plants establish before summer stress.

Cost guide · Wellington

Landscape a Section cost in Wellington (2026)

Typical Wellington range

$6,000 – $210,000

Most Wellington projects land around $19,000 – $47,000. Prices run around the national average, with site costs the swing factor.

Why Wellington differs

Wellington's Very High and Extra High wind zones and seismic foundations add bracing and engineering most flat sites elsewhere don't need.

Usually included

Site preparation
Topsoil and compost
Planting (small to medium plants)
Lawn seed or instant lawn
Basic edging
Standard mulching

Usually excluded

Concrete paving (separate trade)
Retaining walls (separate quote)
Significant earthworks
Outdoor structures (pergola, shed)
Landscape lighting electrical work
Tree removal (over 4m)

Sometimes needs a building consent

Most landscaping doesn't need a building consent. Retaining walls over 1.5m, structural decks, and significant earthworks usually do. Some councils restrict tree removal in protected zones.

What Wellington City Council charges for a consent

$1,697 plan check + itemised extras payable up front

Plan check fee for the $100,001 to $500,000 residential band, plus lodgement $178.50, District Plan check $272, online fee $51.75, inspections $283/hr and CCC $178.50, assembled per project (roughly $2,400 to $5,000 upfront).

Estimate reconciled to actual time; you pay the difference or get a refund. Officer time is charged at $283/hr inspections and re-assessment.

Source: wellington.govt.nz all building consent fees. Compare consent fees across 63 NZ councils →

See 15 Landscapers on the register in Wellington

Questions to ask before you sign

What plants — species, sizes, quantities?
Will you guarantee plant survival for 12 months?
Who handles drainage if the section holds water?
Is irrigation included?
Member of Landscaping NZ?

Wellington landscape a section: common questions

Do landscapers need a licence in NZ?: No — landscaping is unregulated. Landscaping NZ membership is voluntary. Verify the company on Companies Office and ask for portfolio references.
How much do I budget for plants?: Roughly 25-40% of a typical landscape budget goes to plants. Mature trees disproportionately expensive.
When's the best time to landscape in NZ?: Autumn (March-May) and early spring (Aug-Oct) are best — soil's warm, rain is reliable, plants establish before summer stress.

Before you pay anyone, check who they are.

Check the company that quoted you: company status, registration and what's on the public record, from the official NZ sources.

Check a builder

Actually starting this build? Keep watch on your builder for the whole build →

Figures are 2026 estimates for guidance only, not a quote. Actual cost depends on your site, spec and the company you choose. Always get written quotes and check the company on the public record before you pay a deposit.