Website costs in New Zealand vary dramatically — from a few hundred dollars for a basic template to tens of thousands for complex custom systems. The key is understanding what you actually need and what drives the cost.
This guide breaks down the real costs so you can make an informed decision for your business.
A simple brochure site costs much less than an e-commerce store or custom web application. Each feature adds development time and complexity.
Custom design work takes time. Using existing templates or themes reduces cost but limits uniqueness.
If you provide all content (text, images, videos), costs are lower. Professional copywriting and photography add to the budget.
Connecting to payment systems, booking platforms, or other business tools requires additional development work.
Experienced developers typically charge more but often deliver better results faster, potentially saving money overall.
Examples: Wix, Squarespace, Shopify
Good for: Very simple sites, tight budgets
Limitations: Limited customisation, ongoing monthly costs, potential performance issues
What you get: WordPress theme or similar, basic customisation
Good for: Simple business sites with standard requirements
Considerations: May look similar to other sites, limited flexibility for changes
What you get: Custom design, tailored functionality, professional development
Good for: Most small to medium businesses
Includes: Responsive design, contact forms, basic SEO, content management
What you get: Online store with payment processing, inventory management
Cost factors: Number of products, payment integrations, shipping complexity
Ongoing costs: Payment processing fees, hosting, maintenance
Examples: Booking systems, customer portals, business management tools
Cost factors: Complexity, user management, data requirements, integrations
Timeline: Often 2-6 months or more
The more specific you can be about what you need, the more accurate quotes will be. Vague requirements lead to scope creep and higher costs.
Writing your own text and providing your own images can significantly reduce costs.
Build a basic site first, then add features as your business grows and you understand what you actually need.
The cheapest option isn't always the best value. Consider experience, communication, and long-term support.
Budget for hosting, maintenance, and updates. A website isn't a one-time purchase.
Extremely low prices: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Quality work takes time.
No clear scope: Avoid quotes that don't specify exactly what's included.
Large upfront payments: Be wary of developers asking for 100% payment before starting work.
Hidden ongoing fees: Make sure you understand all recurring costs upfront.
Pressure tactics: Good developers don't need to pressure you into quick decisions.
A website is an investment in your business. The right choice depends on your budget, requirements, and long-term goals.
For most small businesses in New Zealand, a custom-built site in the $2,000-8,000 range provides the best balance of functionality, flexibility, and value.
Remember: the cheapest option upfront often costs more in the long run through limitations, poor performance, or expensive changes later.