Cost guide · Updated July 2026

Tiling cost in NZ

Tiling is usually quoted as labour per square metre, with tiles, adhesive, grout and waterproofing charged separately. Published 2026 guides put qualified tiling labour at roughly $80 to $150 per square metre, and up to $220 or more for complex work with waterproofing and detailed cutting.

Written by The Contractor Hub.

Indicative ranges

Tiling labour, standard	$80 to $150 / m²
Complex (waterproofing, cutting)	$150 to $220+ / m²
Surface prep / old tile removal	add $10 to $30 / m²
Pattern (diagonal, herringbone)	add $10 to $50 / m²

Indicative only, compiled July 2026 from the published New Zealand guides listed below. Treat these as a sanity check, then get written quotes.

What moves the price

Per-m² rates are almost always labour only. Tiles, adhesive, grout and waterproofing are separate, so always confirm what the quote includes.
Wet-area waterproofing is a compliance step, not an optional extra. It protects the build and should be documented.
Small, cut-heavy areas (bathrooms, splashbacks) cost more per metre than large open floors.

Common questions

Does a tiling quote include the tiles?

Usually not. The per-square-metre rate is typically labour only, with tiles, adhesive, grout and waterproofing on top. Always confirm what's in and what's separate.

Do I need waterproofing under tiles?

In wet areas, yes. It's a required step that protects the structure. A good tiler documents it, and on TCH it sits on the job record.

Sources

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