Your Minor Dwelling Specialists - Bay Of Plenty
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Minor Dwelling Builders
Smart, flexible living solutions tailored to your lifestyle.
At Mudge Builders, we’ve seen a growing demand for minor dwellings across Tauranga, Papamoa, and the wider Bay of Plenty — and for good reason. Sometimes called granny flats, these compact homes are a smart way to maximise your property’s potential.
Whether you’re planning to support extended family with intergenerational living, create a home office or studio space, or generate extra income through rental opportunities, a minor dwelling offers versatile, long-term value.
Our experienced team can guide you through the entire process — from design and council consents through to a high-quality build that complements your existing home.
At Mudge Builders, we go beyond the budget relocatables — offering higher-end designs that give you more flexibility and comfort.
Want two bathrooms? Need three bedrooms? We’ve got plans to make it happen. Still not enough room for the family? Pair your 70sqm dwelling with a 30sqm sleepout for the ultimate living solution.
Talk to Andrew today and discover how we can create a minor dwelling that adds real value to your property.
What is a Minor Dwelling?
A smart, self-contained solution for independent living.
A minor dwelling — often referred to as a granny flat — is a fully self-contained home built on the same title as your main property. Designed for independent living, these compact homes are ideal for extended family, rental income, or a dedicated work-from-home space.
Minor dwellings can be attached to your main home or built as a separate stand-alone unit. While layouts vary, they typically include a kitchen, bathroom, living space and one or more bedrooms — making them much more than just a sleepout.
Things To Know!
Before you build, here are a few essentials.
In most areas, including Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty, minor dwellings are limited to a maximum of 65m² and generally can’t be subdivided or sold separately. Utilities like water, power, and internet can be connected through the main dwelling with check meters, or independently where required.
Thinking about adding a minor dwelling to your property?
Why Choose Mudge Builders for Your Home or Minor Dwelling Project?
Trusted builders for minor dwellings in Tauranga, Papamoa & the Bay of Plenty.
Experienced Team
With over 20 years in the building industry, our team of licensed builders brings proven skill and local knowledge to every project.
Trusted Craftsmanship
We take pride in delivering high-quality work that’s built to last — from minor dwellings and renovations to full new home builds.
Tailored Solutions
No two families or properties are the same. We work closely with you to create practical, personalised designs that suit your lifestyle and space.
Customer-Focused
We’re a locally owned business with a hands-on approach and a reputation for great service. Your satisfaction is our top priority – and we’re with you every step of the way.
Why Build a Minor Dwelling?
Add value, flexibility, and income to your property.
Minor dwellings – also known as granny flats or secondary dwellings – are becoming increasingly popular in Tauranga, Papamoa, and across the Bay of Plenty. Whether you’re supporting extended family or boosting your property’s potential, a well-designed minor dwelling offers long-term benefits.
At Mudge Builders, we believe minor dwellings should feel like real homes — not just budget add-ons. With the new 70sqm rules, our team designs smarter layouts that maximise space without compromising on quality. From well-appointed two-bathroom options to clever three-bedroom configurations, we can tailor a design that truly fits your lifestyle. And if you’re after even more room, we can integrate a 30sqm sleepout alongside your dwelling for a complete living package.
Intergenerational Living
Keep family close, while giving everyone their own space.
One of the most popular reasons to build a minor dwelling is to support intergenerational living. Whether you’re housing elderly parents who still want their independence, or adult children saving for their first home, a self-contained space on your property keeps the family close without compromising anyone’s privacy. These dwellings are designed with comfort and accessibility in mind, offering a secure, separate living space that still feels part of the family home.
Additional Income
Generate rental income and boost your financial flexibility.
Minor dwellings are a smart investment for generating passive income. With Tauranga’s rental market remaining competitive, a quality-built granny flat can be rented to long-term tenants or used for short stays on platforms like Airbnb. Many homeowners find that the rental income significantly helps with mortgage repayments or adds a reliable secondary revenue stream – all while increasing the overall value of the property.
Work From Home in Peace
Create a quiet, dedicated space for business or creative work.
As remote and hybrid work become the new normal, many people are looking for ways to separate their home and work life. A minor dwelling makes for an ideal office, studio, or consulting space — especially for small business owners or freelancers. Not only does it offer quiet and privacy away from the main house, but it can also be set up to meet business requirements, and in some cases, may even qualify as a deductible business expense.
Increase Property Value
Add long-term value and appeal to your Bay of Plenty home.
A professionally designed and built minor dwelling is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase the market value of your home. Buyers are increasingly looking for homes that offer flexibility, extra accommodation, or the potential for rental income. Whether you plan to sell in a few years or simply want to future-proof your investment, a minor dwelling adds broad appeal and real-world function to any Bay of Plenty property.
Minor Dwelling Styles
Flexible living options that work for today’s market.
Modern minor dwellings — also known as granny flats — are more than just compact homes. Designed with independent living in mind, they’re a highly desirable option for tenants who want privacy without the cost of a full-sized rental. These dwellings are ideal for young professionals, couples, or extended family members who no longer want to flat but aren’t ready to buy.
In high-demand areas like Tauranga, Papamoa, and across the Bay of Plenty, minor dwellings are quick to rent and can provide a steady income stream to help service your mortgage. Their compact size and self-contained features make them low-maintenance but high-value.
Standalone Minor Dwelling
A fully self-contained minor dwelling built separate from the main home is perfect for rental income or independent family living. With their own kitchen, bathroom, and living space, these dwellings offer complete privacy and are highly sought after in areas like Tauranga and Papamoa. They’re ideal for tenants who want their own space without the cost of a full-sized home – and they rarely stay vacant for long.
Attached/Extension Minor Dwelling
An attached minor dwelling or home extension is a smart solution for intergenerational living. These are often integrated into the existing footprint or built as an addition with a private entrance. This option provides the balance of proximity and independence – perfect for elderly parents, grown children, or even a live-in carer.
Garage Conversion or Extension
Garage conversions or minor dwelling extensions above or beside an existing garage make use of underutilised space. These are especially effective for smaller urban sections where space is limited. They can be turned into stylish studios or compact flats ideal for short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb, creating a passive income stream without sacrificing your main living area.
Quality Guaranteed
