William SmithWe’ve all got that one friend who loves to dabble in a bit of DIY, thinking they can transform their living space with a YouTube tutorial and a beginner toolbox. A friend of mine recently took this approach with his kitchen renovation. The results? Let’s just say it was memorable.
Tiles unaligned like a freshly shuffled deck of cards, grout applying techniques that resembled a toddler’s finger-painting session, and a showerhead placed at an angle that transformed a casual rinse into a high-pressured face wash.
Witnessing this disaster unfold firsthand made me realise the importance of hiring professionals for renovations. So, to prevent anyone else from repeating such a disaster, I had some help from the Auckland Magazine team in finding the best renovation contractors in Auckland.
We interviewed several top contractors and spoke with their past customers to bring you a list of renovation contractors who can turn your renovation dreams into reality. Here’s who made the cut.
| How much does it cost to hire a renovation contractor in Auckland? Hiring a renovation contractor in Auckland for small-scale renovations costs at least 20,000 NZD. The final cost will vary depending on the project, the desired timeline, materials, and more. |
How We Chose
1. Refresh Renovations West Auckland
Address: 191 Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland 1061, New Zealand
Contact Details: +64800005947
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Refresh Renovations is known for their free consultations and their thorough process to keep renovations on track and within budget.
Almost everyone we spoke with loved that they have this nifty online customer portal called Control. Many like how it keeps them in the loop with live updates, so they always know what’s happening without constantly checking in with the contractors.
We also noted how well the contractors at Refresh Renovations coordinate all the necessary bits like trades, suppliers, and permits. This kind of alignment reduces the risk of delays and surprise costs, which nobody really wants in a renovation project.
Several clients mentioned that their renovations wrapped up a week early because everything was so well-organised. They also loved how the team listened to and incorporated their ideas into the final designs.
Sure, some people did mention that the initial quoting process could be more detailed. But that was the only complaint we’ve heard.
Pros
- Free consultations
- Within-budget renovations
- Online customer portal (Control)
- Excellent coordination of trades, suppliers, and permits
- Attentive to customer design preferences
Cons
- Quote lacked detail
I would definitely recommend them for any of your project, small or big!
“Dom, Morag, Darren, and the team made an idea of mine into a reality. They help turn an old detached garage into a two storey extension with an access to the original house. It all started from a chat with Morag, and Morag organised the meeting with the architect and necessary people to get the project going. The baton then gets handed to Dom, where he managed the project throughout the process, from getting the council consent done to making sure everything is going to plan. Dom keeps you updated throughout the process, and keeps you up to date with everything.
You will get to know Darren well, especially once you get used to his English accent!
All the builders we had were good at what they did, and always turned up on time in the morning ready to get the job done. Dom and Darren also use very good electricians and plumbers, as they get the job done quickly as well. Overall, my experience with Dom, Morag, Darren, and the builders were really good. I would definitely recommend them for any of your project, small or big!”
– Erena Sawada Google Review
From design to build we were kept up to date with everything
“Dominic and Refresh recently did our kitchen & bathroom renovation. For us it was a big job with a couple of walls coming down and a process that took 6 weeks. From design to build we were kept up to date with everything and they were really professional solving problems that they came across quickly & efficiently. We could not be happier with end result and the one thing I would say is all of the trades people they used were extremely professional. For such a big job we are so glad that we chose Dominic and Refresh – if you want a professional job done with the finish to match then I could not recommend them enough.”
– Richard Monks Google Review
2. Renovations Works
Address: A2/15 Lovell Court, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
Contact Details: +64800736696
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Renovation Works has been around for over 30 years and has tackled hundreds of projects. Their team ranges from talented architects and designers to skilled builders and concrete layers.
Many people we spoke with praised Renovation Works for their control over scope, budget, and time. They make sure they understand what you want, how much you’re willing to spend, and how quickly you want it done.
Many said their contractors really listen and give a clear outline of what to expect and even a ballpark budget amount.
We also heard many remarks about the precision and attention to detail being spot on, with many loving their final renovated spaces. They’re particularly good at turning spaces into sleek, modern kitchens and luxurious, spa-like bathrooms.
However, some felt that the follow-up communication could be better. Some felt they had to chase them up for updates.
Pros
- Over 30 years of experience
- Excellent control over scope, budget, and time
- No-obligation consultations
- Clear project outlines
- Aesthetically pleasing renovations
Cons
- Follow-up communication issues
Top-notch professionalism and exemplary craftsmanship
“For over 8 years, we have had the privilege of collaborating with RenovationWorks on numerous projects. Their team has continually exhibited top-notch professionalism and exemplary craftsmanship, aligning perfectly with our dedication to quality in architectural design. Their adept handling of intricate projects and steadfast commitment to meeting deadlines have made them a reliable and invaluable partner in the industry. The synergy between our firms has resulted in a series of successful projects that stand as a testament to their expertise and capabilities. As we look forward to more years of collaboration, we confidently recommend RenovationWorks for their consistent quality and expertise in the renovation sector.”
– Allan McIntosh Google Review
The renovation is exceptional and I am thrilled with the result
“I remember upon my first consultation with Wade from Renovation Works, I immediately felt like my home in capable hands. With concerns that remedial work was imminently required, Wade and his team worked with me to come up with the plans. Excitement soon took over as design concepts came through. This being my first big renovation, I wondered if I should play it safe. When the designs arrived, Wade showed me how much more the space was capable of. A full survey of the renovation site was undertaken to evaluate where consents were required due to code restrictions. We worked with kitchen specialists for the design and I was kept totally informed throughout the process. All my input was taken into consideration, until we had the final design. Before we commenced I was provided with a build schedule, pricing and construction agreement. I felt confident there was a clear plan in place to begin the renovations. The entire house was replumbed and rewired, to resolve its issues and bring my 1980’s house up to standard. The Renovation Works builders on site were up-to-date on the current codes, explaining and educating me along the way, as the implications of the finer finishing details I wanted arose. Wade project managed the construction, the builders, plumbers, tilers, painters, plasterers, electricians and all the co-ordination of contractors needed to complete the project went smoothly. Any concerns of mine or issues that arose were addressed in a timely manner. Furthermore, the reno he team were highly professional, experienced, and respectful, adding to my sense of confidence and collaboration throughout the project. The renovation is exceptional and I am thrilled with the result. Renovation Works went the extra mile in terms of planning, which made this project run smoothly. I felt I could always ask questions and seek guidance as communication between everyone involved was faultless, which I think was the key to the success of the project.”
– Christine Tizard Google Review
3. Total Home Renovations
Address: Ladies Mile, Remuera, Auckland
Contact Details: +6421393877
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 12 PM
Total Home Renovations has been in the renovation game for over 20 years. They handle everything from kitchen makeovers to bathroom revamps. They can do big projects like full-house renovations, historic property updates, and alterations.
Clients we spoke with seemed genuinely happy with the outcome of their projects. Many told us they loved how their dream kitchen was brought to life with their custom cabinet designs, islands, and more.
Another thing we noted is that they have excellent communication skills. A few homeowners told us they never lacked updates, and the contractor was always just a phone call away.
Safety is another strong point. Many liked that Total Home Renovations took construction site safety seriously, making sure everyone around the site had proper protective gear (hard hats, safety vests, etc.).
Several families mentioned feeling comfortable with the safety measures in place, especially if their kids were around.
That said, some homeowners felt their projects took a bit longer than expected due to unexpected structural issues.
Pros
- Over 20 years of experience
- Kitchens to full-house renovations
- Excellent communication
- Prioritises safety on construction sites
- Good value for the price.
Cons
- Some projects may take longer
Ross came up with solutions for the older house and managed timing changes
“It was great having Ross and Total Home Renovations working on our project with our older house, and also doing a new deck. Ross came up with solutions for the older house and managed timing changes from other contractors delaying the project on the deck. We will definitely use them again.”
– Anna Google Review
Ross made some useful suggestions during the planning stage
We renovated two bathrooms using Total Home Renovations, and were extremely happy with the results. Through the planning and construction phases Ross and his team were great to work with, Ross made some useful suggestions during the planning stage that have really improved the finished product. We are very happy with the finish that has been achieved, we would definitely recommend THR and will use them again for future work.
– Jolyon van Daalen Google Review
4. Reliable Renovations
Contact Details: +64221395722
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Reliable Renovations may be a good choice if you’re thinking about giving your home a makeover—whether it’s your bathroom, kitchen, or the whole shebang.
Many told us that they loved how professional these contractors are. They’re efficient, and they get the job done right. Several homeowners praised them for completing the renovation work with very minimal disruption.
We also noted that they’re always on top of their communication. These guys are always accessible and super responsive, whether it’s through calls, emails, or even texts.
A lot of the clients we talked to also raved about their transparent pricing. Reliable Renovations sticks to no nasty surprises or last-minute charges that make clients feel like they’ve been hit with a financial hammer.
Plus, they make sure everything’s done within the expected timeframe.
However, they are in demand, so their schedule is quite packed. This can be a bit of a headache if you want to start your project ASAP.
Pros
- Efficient
- Discreet
- Responsive communication
- No hidden costs
- On-time renovations
Cons
- Long wait times to begin projects
The work was completed on time and on budget to a high standard
“Kelly and his team At Reliable Renovations just completed our bathroom renovation. Kelly was very professional with excellent communication at all times. The work was completed on time and on budget to a high standard The tradies were excellent, very polite and turned up on time.Kellys advice and attention to detail was excellent and kept us informed at all times. We would highly recommend Kelly and his team for anyone considering a bathroom or any other house renovation.”
– maurice redgwell Google Review
His communication before the project and throughout the three weeks was outstanding
“Kelly and his team from Reliable Renovations recently transformed our 1980’s bathroom to a sleek, modern and tranquil space. Kelly made the process really simple and easy for us, and his communication before the project and throughout the three weeks was outstanding. Small snags following the completion were dealt with in a timely manner. Overall the bathroom renovation went above our expectations, with a high quality finish. Would highly recommend Kelly for anyone looking to renovate their bathrooms.
– Sarah Lyne Google Review
5. Create Renovations
Address: 41 Clyde Road, Browns Bay, Auckland 0630, New Zealand
Contact Details: +64800665858
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 6 PM
Create Renovations is a good choice if you’re after high-quality, sustainable renovations.
Former clients told us they appreciate the team’s use of environmentally friendly materials and were thrilled about the quality of Create Renovations’ work. Whether kitchens, bathrooms, or even full-blown extensions, these guys have nailed it.
Many told us their projects turned out exactly as they envisioned, if not better. Several gushed about their new kitchens, saying the details were spot on, with a mix of modern touches and classic elegance.
From what we’ve seen, these renovators make sure every corner, every edge, and every finish is perfect.
However, one common gripe we heard amongst those we spoke with focused on time management. Several people mentioned that the project timelines stretched longer than anticipated.
Pros
- High-quality workmanship
- Sustainable materials
- Precise finishes and details
Cons
- Time management issues
Stress free, ran smoothly and efficiently, and the quality was excellent
“Create were brilliant from start to finish for our large extension. We stayed in the house throughout the whole build and it was stress free, ran smoothly and efficiently, and the quality was excellent. Every person we dealt with was brilliant – especially our head builder Mike (who ended up feeling a bit like part of the family). All sub trades were great too. Excellent communication and workmanship, great advice throughout, so respectful and considerate, fab with our kids, continued to sort out a couple of little things after the project had wrapped up, all in all I couldn’t recommend them more. Thanks team.”
– Danielle Harris Google Review
Their team understands the nuanced demands of architectural projects
“In the decade we have partnered with Cam and Create, our firm has come to rely on their professionalism. Their team understands the nuanced demands of architectural projects, demonstrating time and again a high level of craftsmanship and adherence to deadlines. Their ability to work seamlessly with our team has been a significant asset. For a company that matches their expertise with reliability, look no further. We wholeheartedly recommend Create for any construction project.”
– Allan McIntosh Google Review
