How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Room in New Zealand?
Painting a room in 2025 is one of the most cost effective ways to give your home a new and refreshed look. Preparing to sell your home, changing the look or just maintaining your property, well you’ll want to understand the costs involved to budget your project accurately. This guide on the costs of painting a room in New Zealand will give you an in depth look on what factors influence pricing, how you can save some money and cover frequently asked questions.
Interior Painting Costs Per Square Metre
In New Zealand, interior painting costs usually range from $35 to $55 per square metre depending on the material and condition of the surface. Below is a table with a breakdown of the costs for different room and home sizes.
| Square Metre | Approx. Cost Range (NZD) |
| 10 m2 | $350 – $550 +GST |
| 20 m2 | $700 – $1,100 +GST |
| 50 m2 | $1,750 – $2,750 +GST |
| 10 m2 | $3,500 – $5,500 +GST |
| 150 m2 | $5,250 – $8,250 +GST |
| 200 m2 | $7,000 – $11,000 +GST |
| 300 m2 | $10,500 – $16,500 +GST |
For a single room, costs typically range from $700 to $1,200, depending on size, paint quality, and labor. Note: these figures exclude scaffolding, wall repairs, or special finishes. To get an accurate estimate tailored to your needs, visit our interior painting services page.
Key Factors Influencing Painting Costs
1. Room Size and Height
Larger rooms are going to require more labour to paint, increasing overall costs. Smaller rooms are a lot quicker to paint but still require the same detailed preparation work.
2. Quality of Paint and Materials
Premium paints, including low-VOC and eco-friendly options, cost more upfront but provide better coverage, durability, and health benefits. Opting for high-quality paint often saves money in the long term, but to learn more about eco-friendly paint read our pro’s and con’s of eco-friendly paint.
3. Surface Preparation
Your paint is only going to look as good as the surface underneath. To achieve a premium finish damaged walls require sanding, repairs and priming all adding to the labour costs.
4. Labor Costs
An experienced painter will charge $50 to $70 per hour, depending on how complicated the job is and the region in New Zealand. Professional teams might charge higher rates but will deliver superior rates and are more likely to have the licenses and insurance to protect your job.
5. Complexity and Extras
Extra painting of things such as trim, doors and cabinetry or decorative features will require more time, another thing to consider when budgeting for your job again.
6. Additional Services
Other parts of the painting process to consider are wall paper removal, tall ceilings to paint, moisture resistant coatings in bathrooms and kitchens – all pieces of the job that will increase the price.
DIY vs. Professional Painting
DIY Painting
If you’re considering hiring a painter, you’re probably looking to get a professional job done. Without proper equipment and training, achieving a result that has no uneven coats, runs or streaks is a hard task. Not to mention the cost of purchasing equipment.
Professional Painting
Hiring professionals ensures a flawless finish and saves you time. Explore our popcorn ceiling removal services for a complete upgrade. Professionals handle surface preparation, cleanup, and details, delivering high-quality work efficiently.
How Painters Estimate Costs
Painters calculate costs based on several factors, including:
- Measuring surfaces: Total wall area, ceilings, trims, and doors.
- Time required: Accounting for complexity, preparation, and cleanup.
- Material costs: Choosing paints and finishes that fit your needs.
This detailed approach ensures accurate estimates for your project.
Cost-Saving Tips for Interior Painting
- Combine Projects: Painting multiple rooms at once can lower per-room costs.
- Prepare in Advance: Move furniture and clean surfaces to reduce labor time.
- Choose Durable Paint: High-quality paint may cost more upfront but lasts longer and requires fewer coats.
- Schedule Off-Peak: Book painting services during slower seasons for potential discounts.
- Request Multiple Estimates: Comparing quotes from reputable painters ensures you get the best value. For more on eco-friendly painting options, visit EPA Low-VOC Guide. To learn about professional painting standards, explore Dulux Professional Resources.
FAQs About Room Painting Costs
1. How long does it take to paint a room?
A standard room typically takes 1-2 days, including preparation, painting, and drying time.
2. What is the best paint finish for walls?
Matte finishes hide imperfections, while semi-gloss or gloss finishes are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
3. How often should I repaint my walls?
Most walls need repainting every 5-10 years, depending on wear and tear and sunlight exposure.
4. Are eco-friendly paints worth the extra cost?
Yes, low-VOC and zero-VOC paints improve indoor air quality and are better for the environment, especially in homes with children or sensitive individuals.
5. Can I get a custom estimate for my project?
Absolutely! Reach out to for a personalized estimate tailored to your home.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs of painting a room allows you to budget effectively and make informed decisions. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire professionals, investing in quality materials and skilled labor ensures a lasting, beautiful finish. For expert painting services in New Zealand, contact Vanguard Painters to get started today!
