Mitre 10 Garden Sheds: Costs, Types & Planning Rules

Anyone who has priced up timber, roofing iron, and fasteners for a DIY shed project knows the numbers can creep up fast. Mitre 10 sells ready-to-assemble kitset sheds that bundle everything together, and for many New Zealand homeowners the total cost starts to look a lot more predictable.

Availability: Mitre 10 sells garden sheds in New Zealand and Australia ·
Common foundation requirement: Most sheds need a solid, level base such as concrete or compacted gravel ·
Exclusive brand at Mitre 10 NZ: Storite kitset sheds are New Zealand made and sold exclusively at Mitre 10

Here is how the key specifications stack up for Mitre 10’s garden shed range.

Is it cheaper to make a shed or buy one?

Building a shed from scratch means buying materials individually, renting or buying tools, and investing time. A kitset from Mitre 10 includes all components and can be assembled with basic tools. The trade-off is between upfront cash and labor hours.

What is the average cost of an 8×10 shed?

• An 8×10 shed (80 sq. ft. floor area) from Mitre 10 typically ranges from around NZ$1,200 to NZ$2,500 depending on material — metal is generally cheapest, wood mid-range, and resin/vinyl the priciest.
• DIY building from raw materials can run NZ$800–NZ$1,500 for basic timber and roofing, but requires framing skills, tools, and weatherproofing expertise. Many homeowners exceed budget due to material waste and tool hire (Duratuf).
• The kitset includes pre-cut pieces and fasteners, reducing waste. As Storite NZ puts it, the sheds are “easy-to-assemble” packages designed for DIY owners.

What is the cheapest time of year to buy a shed?

Seasonal pricing patterns show that end-of-summer sales and Black Friday often bring discounts. Mitre 10 typically runs clearance events in February and March to move summer stock, and pre-Christmas promotions in November. Buyers who can wait until late summer may save 15–25% off the regular price.

What are common mistakes in DIY shed building?

• Improper foundation — the most frequent error. Placing a shed directly on grass or soil causes rot and instability (Can I Build It).
• Incorrect measurements — failing to allow for overhang, door swing, and access paths.
• Poor weatherproofing — gaps in roofing, missing flashing, and untreated wood left exposed to rain.

Does Mitre 10 sell garden sheds?

Yes — Mitre 10 offers garden sheds in New Zealand and Australia. In NZ the exclusive kitset brand is Storite, which describes the sheds as New Zealand made. The range includes gable roof and skillion roof styles, plus portable and specialised models.

What types of sheds does Mitre 10 offer?

• Gable roof sheds: classic pitched roof, good for storage and taller items.
• Skillion roof sheds: modern low-profile design, often used for tools and garden equipment.
• Portable sheds: lightweight and movable, ideal for renters or temporary storage.
• Specialised sheds: designed for specific uses like bike storage or greenhouse kits.

Mitre 10 also sells shed accessories (shelving, locking systems) and assembly guides. An online step-by-step guide and a YouTube tutorial from Mitre 10 Easy As DIY (published August 2013) walk through the entire kit assembly process.

How do Mitre 10 shed prices compare to other retailers?

Mitre 10’s prices are competitive with Bunnings and PlaceMakers. For an 8×10 metal shed, Mitre 10 is typically within 10% of market average. The exclusive Storite brand offers good value for NZ-made quality, though exact prices vary by store and sale timing.

The implication: Mitre 10 anchors the NZ shed market with a dedicated brand, giving buyers a predictable starting point for price comparisons.

What size shed needs building consent in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, a single-storey garden shed does not need a building consent if its floor area does not exceed 30m² and it meets height and boundary rules. This threshold was eased in August 2025 by the government (MBIE).

Does a shed need to be 1 metre from the boundary?

Not always. The exempt pathway requires the shed to be at least its own height away from the boundary, or 2.5 metres if closer than that distance — whichever is greater. Can I Build It states that a shed closer to the boundary than its height may need building consent.

Can I build a shed next to my neighbour’s fence in New Zealand?

Yes, but you risk breaching the boundary rules unless the shed is low enough and far enough away. If the shed is within 1 metre of the neighbour’s fence, additional height restrictions apply. Always check local district plan rules. Building Performance notes that the 2025 reform reduced restrictions but did not eliminate all standards.

Do you need planning permission for a garden shed in New Zealand?

Planning permission is separate from building consent. District plans may require a resource consent for sheds in certain zones (e.g., near waterways or in heritage areas). The consent-free building threshold of 30m² does not automatically exempt you from planning rules. Always check with your local council before buying materials.

Are metal or wooden sheds better?

The choice between metal and wood affects cost, maintenance, appearance, and longevity. Duratuf notes that metal sheds are popular for their low maintenance, while wood offers a natural look that can be painted.

Four material types, one clear pattern: maintenance effort trades off against upfront cost.

What are the pros and cons of metal sheds?

What are the pros and cons of wooden sheds?

How do resin and vinyl compare?

Resin or vinyl sheds are virtually maintenance-free — they resist rust, rot, and insects. They are lightweight and easy to assemble, but often cost more than metal and can feel less sturdy. Keter NZ notes that their resin sheds are popular for small gardens where appearance matters more than heavy storage capacity.

Buying a kitset shed vs building from scratch: pros and cons

The pattern: a kitset trades design flexibility for cost predictability and speed — a fair swap for most homeowners.

Do sheds need a base?

Yes — a solid, level base is essential for shed stability and longevity. Can I Build It states that the shed must be placed on a “firm, level ground”. Without a proper base, the structure can shift, doors may stick, and moisture damage accelerates.

Can a shed sit directly on gravel?

Gravel can work if it is compacted properly over a geotextile membrane to prevent weeds and settling. A 10–15 cm layer of compacted gravel on well-draining soil is acceptable for small sheds. However, for larger or wooden sheds, concrete slab or paving slabs provide more stability. Duratuf warns that placing a shed directly on grass or bare soil voids most warranties and leads to rapid deterioration.

What type of base is best for a shed?

• Concrete slab: Most durable, ideal for heavy wooden sheds. Cost: NZ$300–$600 for an 8×10.
• Paving slabs: Good for metal and resin sheds. Easier to install, but can shift over time.
• Compacted gravel: Budget-friendly and good drainage. Best for small metal sheds.

Mitre 10’s shed assembly guides include base requirements. See their How to Build a Deck in New Zealand guide for related foundation principles (note: deck foundation differs but shares leveling and drainage concepts).

Why this matters: skimping on the base is the single most common mistake that shortens a shed’s life. Spending an extra $200 on a proper concrete slab can add 10 years to the structure.

“Storite garden sheds are an easy-to-assemble package, available from Mitre 10 and Mitre 10 MEGA.”

Storite NZ (New Zealand shed manufacturer)

“No more red tape for garden sheds and garages — the government is easing restrictions on garden sheds and sleep outs.”

Beehive (New Zealand Government press release)

For a New Zealand homeowner, the choice between a Mitre 10 kitset shed and a DIY build is clear: buy the kitset unless you already own every tool and have a pile of lumber sitting in the garage. The new 30m² consent-free rules make it easier than ever to add storage to your property — just don’t forget the base, the boundary setback, and a quick check with your council before you start.

Frequently asked questions

For related reading, see How to Build a Deck in New Zealand: Step-by-Step Guide & Rules (foundation and leveling basics) and COLORSTEEL Colours NZ: Cost, Durability & Paint Guide (matching shed colour to your home).