Supporting healthier, low-emission homes

Fulfilling the commitments set out in QLDC’s Climate and Biodiversity Plan, Council has supported both the Superhome Movement to develop a new online Superhome Design Guide, and the WAO Better Building training series. Together providing a suite of practical resources for those looking to build or renovate more sustainably.

The Superhome Design Guide brings together practical advice, videos, and case studies, alongside the ‘Super 6 Essentials’ and a flexible certification framework (Base, Better, Best) to suit a range of budgets and building types. It also includes a dedicated renovation guide, offering tailored guidance for improving the performance of common New Zealand homes, including a standout local project that transforms a mid-century Queenstown house into a warm, high-performing home (while retaining its original character).

The WAO Better Building training series complements this with locally relevant learning opportunities, bringing together experts and practitioners to share practical insights on creating healthier, lower-energy homes. Topics range from design principles through to materials and construction approaches, helping build capability across the local sector.

Together, these resources help you build or renovate a warmer, drier, more energy-efficient home.

Explore the full Superhome Design Guide or check out the Superhome Movement website for case studies and resources, and learn more about WAO’s Better Building series here.