NZSEE members are invited to comment on the consultation of the revision of New Zealand’s leading construction standard – NZS 3604 Timber-Framed Buildings.
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 light timber-framed buildings. It prescribes provisions for structural solutions including foundation details, bracing, spans, fixings, connectors and layout, grounded in New Zealand unique environmental conditions. It’s also where ‘good ground’ is defined.
Scope of the revision
This revision aims to improve both the usability and technical coverage of NZS 3604. Key proposed changes include (areas related to geotechnical design are shown in bold):
- New and updated framing solutions for three‑storey construction (bracing not included in this draft).
- Improved guidance on thermal performance, including new construction details.
- Updated foundation solutions for moderately expansive soils and liquefaction‑prone sites.
- Redefinition of ‘good ground’ to take the above into account.
- New flowcharts to clarify foundation requirements in moderately liquefiable and/or expansive conditions.
- 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
If you are involved in the design, engineering, construction, consenting, or assessment of light timber-framed buildings, your practical knowledge and experience are invaluable. The committee is seeking feedback from practitioners to ensure the revised standard is practical, technically robust, and reflects real-world industry needs.
Whether you have detailed technical comments or broader observations, your input will help improve the final document. We strongly encourage all members with relevant experience to review the draft and provide feedback.
The full draft revised standard is available for review throughout the consultation period, which closes on 25 August. Instructions on accessing the draft and submitting comments are provided on the consultation pages.
All submissions must go through this portal. Note that each submission has a limit of 20 comments but there is no limit on the number of submissions you can make.
