For most concreting jobs in New Zealand, the general rule of thumb is to get at least three quotes. This gives you a realistic sense of the market rate, helps you spot any outliers, and gives you confidence you're choosing a tradesperson on merit — not just because they were the only one who showed up.
Why Three Quotes Is the Sweet Spot
One quote gives you no comparison. Two quotes can leave you stuck if the prices are poles apart. Three quotes tends to reveal a pattern: you'll often find two prices sitting reasonably close together and one that's noticeably higher or lower. That spread tells you a lot.
For larger or more complex jobs — such as a new driveway, a concrete slab for a garage or sleepout, retaining walls, or decorative concrete work — you might consider getting four or five quotes. The higher the project cost, the more worthwhile the extra legwork becomes.
For smaller jobs like a garden path, a single step repair, or patching, two solid quotes from reputable local concreters may be perfectly sufficient.
What to Include When Requesting Quotes
To get quotes you can actually compare apples with apples, give every concreter the same information upfront:
- Site address and access details — is there easy truck access for a concrete mixer?
- Dimensions — area in square metres and any changes in level
- Intended use — driveway, patio, shed slab, pool surround, etc.
- Finish type — plain broom finish, exposed aggregate, coloured, stamped, or polished
- Reinforcing requirements — mesh, rebar, or fibre reinforcement
- Subbase preparation — does the ground need excavation, compaction, or fill?
- Drainage and falls — any specific requirements for water runoff
- Timeline — when you need the work done
The more detail you provide, the more accurate and comparable your quotes will be.
What a Good Quote Should Cover
A professional concreter's written quote should clearly set out:
| Item | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Scope of work | Exactly what is and isn't included |
| Concrete specification | MPa strength rating (e.g. 25 MPa, 30 MPa) |
| Thickness | Typically 100 mm for paths, 100–125 mm for driveways |
| Reinforcing | Type and placement |
| Subbase prep | Excavation depth, compaction, base material |
| Formwork | Included or extra? |
| Finishing | Specified finish type |
| Curing | How and for how long |
| Timeframe | Start date and estimated completion |
| Payment terms | Deposit, progress payments, final payment |
| GST | Clearly stated — all NZ quotes should show GST |
If a quote is vague or verbal only, ask for it in writing before proceeding.
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
Don't automatically go with the cheapest. A low quote can mean thinner concrete, lower-strength mix, skipped reinforcing, or poor subbase preparation — all of which can lead to cracking and costly repairs down the track.
Look at what's included in each quote rather than just the bottom line. Ask each concreter to clarify anything that's unclear. Key questions to ask:
- What MPa concrete are you using, and why?
- Is subbase preparation included?
- What reinforcing will you use?
- How will you cure the concrete?
- Are you a member of any trade association?
- Can you provide references or photos of recent work?
Building Consent and NZ Regulations
Depending on the scope of your project, a building consent may be required. For example, a concrete slab for a habitable building or a garage will generally need consent under the NZ Building Code. Some work may qualify as Schedule 1 exempt work, but this depends on your specific situation — always check with your local council before starting.
Concrete driveways and paths typically don't require consent, but if your project involves drainage changes, retaining walls over a certain height (check with your local council for the applicable threshold), or a structural slab, consent is likely needed. Your concreter should be able to advise, but the final call rests with your council.
For guidance on building standards and good practice, BRANZ is an excellent NZ resource.
Red Flags to Watch For
- No written quote — always get it in writing
- Unusually low price — may indicate cut corners
- Large upfront deposit demanded — a reasonable deposit is normal, but be cautious of requests for more than 20–30% upfront
- No GST number — all registered NZ tradespeople charging GST must be GST-registered
- Pressure to decide immediately — reputable tradies don't need to rush you
When to Call a Professional
Concreting is not restricted work in the same way that electrical or plumbing is, but it is a skilled trade. Poor concrete work — wrong mix, inadequate reinforcing, bad finishing, or insufficient curing — can result in cracking, surface failure, and expensive remediation.
For any slab, driveway, or structural concrete work, hiring a qualified, experienced concreter is strongly recommended. You can find local concreters on tradedirectory.co.nz and check whether they hold a Licensed Building Practitioner licence if the work is connected to a building.
If your project involves drainage, always ensure it complies with your local council's stormwater requirements — MBIE Building Performance has useful guidance on this.
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