Canterbury

Canterbury is one of New Zealand's most active new build markets, and Golden Homes has been delivering new build homes in Canterbury for over 25 years. From new build homes in Christchurch city through to Rolleston, Lincoln, Kaiapoi, and down to Ashburton and Rakaia in Mid Canterbury, our experienced regional team covers the full span of the Canterbury Plains. Whether you're looking for a house and land package in a growing development or a custom design-and-build on your own section, we have the team and the plans to make it happen.

Why Build in Canterbury

Canterbury consistently ranks among New Zealand's best regions to build and live. Christchurch has transformed significantly over the past decade — the rebuild has delivered a city with modern infrastructure, a revitalised CBD, strong schools, efficient road and transport links, and a lifestyle that balances urban convenience with easy access to the mountains, ski fields, surf beaches, and wide open spaces that make Canterbury distinctive.

For new home builders in Canterbury, the region also offers something increasingly rare: well-serviced land in genuinely connected communities. Rolleston is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing towns, consistently drawing buyers who want a new build without city land prices. North Canterbury towns like Kaiapoi and Rangiora continue to attract families who want more space while staying within easy reach of Christchurch. And Mid Canterbury centres like Ashburton and Rakaia offer a pace of life and section value that's simply unavailable closer to the city.

New Build Homes Across Canterbury

Golden Homes builds new build homes across Canterbury, with active build programmes in:

Christchurch city and Halswell covering established suburbs and newer residential areas across the city. Whether you're building on an existing section or exploring current developments, our Christchurch team can help you find the right design for your site and budget.

Rolleston and Lincoln where strong growth, well-planned community infrastructure, and accessible sections have made this corridor one of the most popular areas for new builds in Canterbury. Current developments include Faringdon in Rolleston and Earlsbrook in Lincoln, with showhomes open at both.

Kaiapoi and North Canterbury for buyers building north of the city, with more generous sections, a strong community feel, and good access into Christchurch via State Highway 1.

Ashburton, Rakaia, and Mid Canterbury for buyers after a quieter pace of life, larger land, and the distinct rural character of Mid Canterbury, while staying well connected to both Christchurch and the wider South Island.

Every Golden Homes build uses ZOG® steel framing as standard — earthquake tested to Richter 9+, backed by a 50-year structural warranty, and Sensitive Choice certified for being mould-free and asthma-friendly. In a region shaped by the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, building in steel is a decision that matters. Learn more about ZOG steel framing.

House and Land Packages in Canterbury

House and land packages in Canterbury pair quality Golden Homes designs with selected sections across Christchurch, Rolleston, Lincoln, Kaiapoi, and Mid Canterbury at a fixed price. If you already own land, browse our range of house plans and the local team will adapt a design to your site. Fixed-price contracts mean the price agreed at signing is the price you pay, with minimal provisional sums and no surprises at handover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Golden Homes build in Canterbury?

Golden Homes builds new build homes in Canterbury across Christchurch city, Rolleston, Lincoln, Kaiapoi, Halswell, Ashburton, Rakaia, and surrounding areas. Active developments and showhomes span the full region from North Canterbury to Mid Canterbury. Get in touch to confirm current availability in your preferred area.

Why is ZOG® steel framing especially relevant in Canterbury?

Canterbury experienced two significant earthquake events in 2010 and 2011, and seismic resilience remains a genuine consideration for anyone building in the region. ZOG® steel framing is earthquake tested to Richter 9+, carries a 50-year structural warranty, and is Sensitive Choice certified for being mould-free and chemical-free. It's a structural standard that matters here specifically. Learn more.

What new build options are available in Rolleston?

Rolleston is one of Golden Homes' most active build areas in Canterbury. Current options include house and land packages in the Faringdon development across a range of designs and price points. Showhomes at 34 and 36 Finstock Way are open Wednesday to Sunday 12pm to 4pm. Enquire directly for current pricing and stage availability.

Can I build on my own section in Canterbury?

Yes. If you own land anywhere in the Canterbury region, choose from our range of house plans and the local team will tailor a design to your site. Your consultant will work through any site-specific requirements early, including Christchurch City Council or Selwyn District Council consenting considerations, so the build moves forward without delays.

What does a fixed-price contract include with Golden Homes Canterbury?

Golden Homes Canterbury fixed-price contracts cover items that many builders leave as provisional sums — including driveways, paths, patios, fences, internal gates, letterboxes, and clotheslines. The price agreed at signing is the price you pay. It's worth asking any builder exactly what their contract covers before comparing quotes.

How long does a new build take in Canterbury?

Most builds run between 20 and 30 weeks from consent to completion, depending on design, section, and Christchurch City Council or Selwyn District Council processing times. Your dedicated Construction Manager will provide a build programme at the start and keep you updated at every key stage through to handover.