Busting the Myth of Expensive Stone Cladding

Many believe that using Oamaru Stone for exterior cladding is too costly in New Zealand. We decided to delve into this matter to debunk this myth, and it turns out, the reality is quite the opposite.

NZ bricks typically start at about $1.60 each (or $78/m²) and can go up to $4.99 per brick (or $99/m²). Timber cladding is costlier, with prices starting at about $140/m² for basic Pinus Radiata and reaching $300/m² for exotic varieties like Cedar. Similarly, plaster facades cost between $120/m² and $200/m², while Colorsteel is priced at $200/m² for standard profiles, escalating to $400/m² for the more stylish tray profiles favoured by contemporary architects.

Despite appearing premium, Oamaru Stone is surprisingly economical, with prices beginning at just $66/m², making it the most affordable natural stone cladding option in New Zealand.

How can limestone enhance my new construction?

Oamaru Stone is mainly used as exterior cladding over a timber frame with a 70 mm or 90 mm veneer option.

Our most sought-after size, the 650 x 290 mm face size stone, is priced affordably at $66/m². Oamaru Stone is not limited to just cladding; it's also beautifully integrated into design features like quoins (corner stones), sill stones, and plinth courses (the row of stones at the base of your home), as well as around windows and doors. It’s an exceptionally flexible material.

Adding limestone in this manner can lend a magnificent grandeur to new constructions, and numerous custom home builders nationwide have embraced this style, particularly using larger blocks measuring up to 1000 x 500 mm.

Ordered your stone? Here's how to get it there.

Depending on the amount ordered, we offer various delivery options. In the South Island, a typical house load of stone costs about $3,500 plus GST to deliver. Deliveries to Auckland may cost about $7,500 plus GST.

We can also transport approximately 22 tonnes of stone to Auckland by rail for about $3,900 plus GST, although receiving cladding in a shipping container can be challenging due to access issues.

Give us your specific requirements and we can get back to you with a cost to deliver it pretty much anywhere in New Zealand.

Interested in using limestone for your next project? Contact Dustin at Oamaru Stone at 03 4331134 or email [email protected] to explore the durable, non-toxic, and aesthetically timeless options of 100% natural Oamaru Stone.