Why do we need the movement?
Raising the standard for healthier, energy efficient homes
NZ's building standards are 20 years behind
Almost all houses built today are built to the minimum standard allowed by law (equivalent to a Homestar rating of 3). This is well below what is acceptable by other developed countries where minimum standards are around Homestar rating of 6 or above. The result is that most kiwis will end up living in cold damp houses that are unhealthy and costly to run due to inefficient design, building, and poor quality building materials. Respiratory diseases are directly linked to cold, damp, and mouldy homes. NZ has the highest childhood asthma rate in the world with 30% of our 7 year olds having asthma. Additionally, we have the highest mortality rate from asthma of all high-income countries.
we need better building standards to protect our health and future
We need better building standards to support the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders, now and in the future. The Superhome Movement is dedicated to driving that change. We are a non-profit, industry-led group creating transformative change in the New Zealand building industry through education, supporting good business, and lobbying for change. Our goal is to raise standards so that all new homes are healthier and more energy efficient, while also promoting environmental, economic, and socially sustainable practices.
How to create a Superhome
Key points about creating healthy, energy efficient homes. Coming Soon!
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Home Orientation
Design orientated for correct solar gain shading optimised to prevent overheating
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Insulation
High performance thermal envelope insulation continuous without thermal bridges
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Windows
Windows high spec and recessed in wall low E double glazing with a non-conductive thermal spacer
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Foundations
Foundations fully edge insulated, with no thermal bridging, and an insulated floor
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Heating
Energy efficient heating, such as hydronic underfloor that is solar powered
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Ventilation
Heat/energy recovery ventilation to eliminate moisture and improve health
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Airtightness
Airtight construction and building materials to minimise heat loss and eliminate moisture and mold in the walls
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Moisture Control
Use water efficient fittings and appliances. Remove moisture at source, such as bathroom/kitchen extraction
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Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting for use in gardens and as greywater
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Energy
Use renewable energy sources with energy efficient fittings and appliances, and automated smart controls to restrict energy use to times when it is needed
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Sustainable Materials
Use ethically sourced, sustainable products such as those that are environmentally certified.
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Sustainable Construction
Sustainable building methods help minimse waste and ensure the home is resilient and future focused
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Landscaping
Minimise your carbon footprint by having food producing plants and native landscaping
Superhome Experts
Find people who know how to create Superhomes
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Designers
Find a Superhome designer
Find an architectural designer who is experienced in designing for health, comfort, resilience, and energy efficiency. A good architect will save you thousands of dollars in running costs for your home.
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Builders
Find a Superhome builder
Find a builder who is experienced in building above the minimum building code with evidence of several homes built to Homestar 6 or better. They should have a genuine interest in energy efficiency including a willingness to learn and make continual improvements.
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Design and Build
Find an all in one design and build company
Find companies that can do both design and build. Some will have an in-house architect or draftsman, others will have an external architect or draftsman that they work closely with.
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Suppliers
Explore Superhome suppliers
Learn about suppliers that can help you get the most out of your thermal envelope including products to ensure airtightness, fully insulated slabs, heating, uninterrupted insulation in the walls and ceilings, and high performance windows.
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Engineers
Find a Superhome engineer
Explore engineers who are experienced in structural engineering for optimal energy efficiency. Engineers re required for all builds, and it is critical to find professionals who are experienced in working with energy efficient designers and builders.
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Developers
Find developers specialising in super communities
Developers who have a keen eye for sustainable communities and energy efficient homes.
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Realtors and Valuers
Find realtors and valuers experienced in valuing and marketing Superhomes
Superhomes are as much as 10% more valuable than those that are not energy efficient. The key is in finding realtors and valuers who know how to value and market energy efficient houses.
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Renovations
Find builders experienced in Super renovations
Renovating your existing home with energy efficient options requires a builder who is experienced in the complexities of renovations and how to get the most out of your thermal envelope while retaining the character of your home.
Virtual Tour | See inside NZ's most healthy and energy efficient homes
Setting a new standard
Energy efficiency should not be a niche market in the building industry, it should be a minimum standard of practice for all homes built in New Zealand. The Superhome Movement aims to raise standards so that all new homes are healthier and more energy efficient.
Learn more