Description

Opened 29 Jun 2026

Closes 8 Sep 2026

NZS 3604 Timber-framed buildings is under revision.

Standards New Zealand welcomes industry feedback on the draft to help shape the final version of New Zealand’s leading construction standard.

NZS 3604 Timber-framed buildings is a leading standard used by designers, builders, architects, engineers, and consenting authorities.  The standard underpins the design and construction of a large percentage of New Zealand’s light timber-framed buildings. It prescribes provisions for structural solutions including foundation details, bracing, spans, fixings, connectors and layout,  grounded in New Zealand unique environmental conditions.

Scope

This revision focuses on improving both usability and technical coverage of NZS 3604. Key areas of change include:

• New and updated framing solutions for three‑storey construction (bracing not included in this draft).
• Improved guidance on thermal performance, including new construction details.
• Updated foundation solutions for moderately expansive soils and liquefaction‑prone sites.
• Clarification of requirements for stairwell framing and isolated internal masonry walls.
   

Rationalisation of timber sizes and grades to align with materials commonly available in the New Zealand market.

Summary of NZS 3604 Revision [PDF 58KB] — standards.govt.nz

Make your submission — standards.govt.nz