Designing standards for New Zealand schools
We’ve introduced a standardised approach to improve the quality, consistency, affordability and durability of school property projects. This approach is based on a set of strong design standards.
New Zealand has mandatory standards for new builds
If you’re planning to do property work at a school in New Zealand, you must follow New Zealand design standards. These standards help make sure our schools are safe, fit-for-purpose and sustainable.
For schools: An essential reference
Designing schools in Aotearoa New Zealand (DSNZ) is the document that sets out the school property design standards you must follow. These standards are mandatory for new builds. You also need to meet these standards where practicable for maintenance or refurbishments.
In this over-arching document, you can find information about design principles, spatial planning, and technical specifications, with links to standards. We strongly recommend schools read this document together with our standard design catalogues.
For construction professionals: Find design standards
All work on school property is expected to comply with legislative requirements, best practices, and NZSPA requirements.
Consult 'Designing schools in Aotearoa New Zealand', and use the list of NZSPA requirements and guidance below.
More information
Standard designs are a set of pre-approved designs for school buildings and classroom layouts.
Standardising these designs means projects can move from planning to construction more quickly, and all students can learn in well-designed, well-maintained schools.
Related pages
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Designing Quality Learning Spaces
Design teams must comply with the Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS) requirements when designing schools and kura.Read more -
Fencing at school
Get guidance on installing or replacing fencing at your school, and the design standards you need to meet.Read more