Is the backyard ready for summer?

What is your summer going to look like this year? Will you be enjoying a spa under the stars on  long, warm evenings? Watching your kids play a game of backyard cricket with their friends on the lawn? Or maybe picking some berries for dessert from your own vege patch…

For many New Zealanders, the warmer months are when the outdoor spaces in a home can really start to shine. If you’ve got plans to step up your backyard game this year, there are a few things you might think about.

Start with how you want to use it

A good place to start if you’re planning possible changes to your outdoor space is to think about how you use it. Whether you’ve got a large garden or a smaller area, there may be ways that you can maximise the space to fit your priorities.  

How do you like to live outside? Are you hoping to create a perfect entertaining space, do you want more usable room for kids or pets, or are you hoping to start a vegetable garden to deliver food for your kitchen? Knowing what you would love to be doing outside can help hone your thoughts. Allow yourself to daydream a little bit here – what does a perfect summer weekend or evening look like for you?

Big projects and small wins

People often have a few big projects on their wish lists, things like decks or patios, maybe an outdoor kitchen. What could be better than cooking a meal under the stars? Sometimes things like a shade sail or fencing can make a big difference, too, particularly if they mean kids and animals can make more use of the space for more of the day.

Changes don’t have to come from big projects, though. It’s sometimes possible to change the look, feel and usability of your garden area with some smaller wins, too, such as adding some washable bean bags to lounge around on the lawn, some planting in containers, or giving your space a deep clean so the deck looks crisp and inviting.

What it really costs

Outdoor projects can vary a lot in price, from virtually nothing to many thousands of dollars. Sometimes, bigger projects like decks and patios may have costs associated that you might not think about at first, such as the need for council consents or concrete foundations. Usually, consents aren’t required if you can’t fall more than 1.5 metres from your structure, but as this government guidance notes, it’s also important to check that you’re not running foul of any other rules such as maximum site coverage or setback requirements. Checking these things early can help save money and stress in the long run.

DIY or call in the pros?

Lots of New Zealanders love a bit of DIY and there’s something really satisfying about doing the work yourself. You can find lots of information online about anything from building your own deck or create your own outdoor kitchen. Imagine how great it might feel to serve your friends after-work drinks on a deck you’ve built with your own two hands.

Sometimes, though, it’s worth calling in the experts. While it may sometimes cost more upfront to hire an expert, the time saved in having a professional do the job can pay off. A DIY job can sometimes take a lot longer and cost a lot more than you initially expect, particularly if it’s not something you do often. As Consumer NZ says, unless you’re absolutely sure you’re capable, it’s usually quicker, cheaper and often safer to hire an expert.

Some things, particularly when it comes to electricity and plumbing, require an expert to keep them legal.

Get in before the summer rush

If you’re planning to make changes outdoors this year, you may find your path is smoother if you act early. It’s often the case that everyone starts pondering what they could do outdoors as the sun starts to shine a bit more, and products and professionals can become scarcer as we head into the summer months. If you get in before the summer rush, you may have more time to plan your project, and find the people and resources to help you bring it to life. The earlier you get into it, the sooner it’ll be ready for you and your family to enjoy.

Like to take the next step?

If you’re ready to make a move, you might be thinking about how you’ll pay for the work. In some cases, finance might be a suitable option. Our calculator can help you work out what the repayments might be on any loan you’re considering.

Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.