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Have your say on the revision of New Zealand’s leading construction standard – NZS 3604 Timber-framed buildings

Standards New Zealand is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed buildings. The draft has been prepared by the PR 3604 Revision Committee, comprising industry, regulatory, and technical experts.

Timber framing of a house under construction.

What is NZS 3604

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 timber-framed buildings. 

The standard provides prescribed solutions for structural elements such as foundations, framing, bracing, spans, fixings, connectors, and building layout, taking into account New Zealand’s unique environmental and seismic conditions.

Revision of NZS 3604

This consultation provides the formal opportunity for individuals, organisations, and stakeholders with an interest in the standard to review and provide feedback on the proposed changes. 

To support your review, the full text of the draft revised standard is available on our website for the duration of the consultation period (8 weeks). Please note:

  • the NZS 3604 draft is published solely for public consultation and will change before final release. It must not be used for practical application, as genuine industry feedback will shape and change the final standard.
  • access is provided solely for the purpose of public consultation, and the document must not be retained, reproduced, or distributed at all. 
  • copyright and intellectual property in the NZS 3604 draft is owned by Standards New Zealand. Copying or using content without written permission is unlawful and may result in legal action. 

Scope of the revision

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 (excluding bracing)
  • 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.

Consultation period

Public consultation closes on 25 August 2026.

We welcome your feedback and thank you for taking the time to participate in the revision of this important building standard.

Have your say on the draft of NZS 3604 | Citizen Space(external link)