NZGBC celebrates 20th anniversary

The New Zealand Green Building Council has this week marked its 20th anniversary. Founded in 2006 by 31 members, NZGBC is now a community of over 700 member organisations and associates, all dedicated to creating healthier, more resilient, and lower-impact buildings and homes.

Over the past two decades, NZGBC has driven major change across the construction and property sectors, with more than $50 billion worth of certified buildings and homes delivering lower running costs, enhanced resilience, reduced climate pollution, and improved health outcomes for occupants.

Its influence now extends to 5.5 million square metres of commercial property covered by green certification and 16,000 homes certified through the Homestar programme.

“We continue to put people and the planet at the centre of design, construction, and operations,” says NZGBC chief executive Andrew Eagles. “The strength of interest in green buildings is reflected in the continued growth and commitment of our members.”

“As we begin our 20th anniversary year, we want to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to this collective journey. Your leadership and collaboration continue to move us toward a more sustainable future.”

Commemorative anniversary decals are being displayed on hundreds of buildings nationwide to showcase green certifications for the benefit of their tenants, employees, and communities.

Over 16,000 homes have been built or are underway to Homestar standards, providing healthier, more affordable living for Kiwi families and saving homeowners up to $100,000 over their mortgages.

NZGBC’s green certifications have diverted 168,000 tonnes of construction waste from landfills, driven the use of lower-carbon materials, and supported the shift away from fossil fuels in buildings, which currently use about 15% of New Zealand’s gas.

Advocacy efforts have improved living conditions for 600,000 households, upheld insulation standards for 120,000 future homes, and introduced a national carbon measurement framework covering 9% of emissions.

With 450 professionals trained, 36 events reaching 2,500 participants, and the launch of the new Green Star Buildings NZ standard, NZGBC continues to lead the transition to healthier, low‑carbon, future‑ready buildings.

“Momentum remains strong across Green Star, Homestar, NABERSNZ, and Green Star Communities,” says Andrew Eagles.

“The transition to Green Star Buildings NZ has the sector well-placed to address real issues facing Aotearoa, such as climate adaptation and the upcoming focus on embodied carbon targets in 2026.

“We will continue to push hard for a building code that protects all New Zealanders, encourages transparent performance standards, and supports strong leadership on improving our sector.”