Smart homes, hidden systems, and ultra-comfort – here’s what’s hot right now.
Planning a new build or renovation? Plumbing and heating are no longer just behind-the-wall necessities — they’re a huge part of creating a comfortable, efficient, and future-ready home.
Here are the top trends we’re seeing right now across New Zealand homes. Use them as inspiration to help shape your next project.
1. Invisible Heating Is In
Say goodbye to bulky radiators and wall-mounted units. Homeowners are embracing invisible, whole-home heating systems — and leading the way is underfloor heating.
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Works silently and out of sight
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Perfect for open-plan living
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Delivers even warmth from the ground up
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Pairs beautifully with energy-efficient heat pumps
It’s no surprise underfloor heating is showing up in everything from high-end new builds to smart, energy-focused renovations.
2. Sustainable Solutions Are a Must
More homeowners are looking for eco-friendly ways to heat and plumb their homes, and the industry is responding in kind.
Trending choices include:
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Air-to-water heat pumps – low-carbon and highly efficient
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Greywater systems – reusing water from showers and basins
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Hot water heat pump cylinders – up to 3x more efficient than electric cylinders
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Low-flow tapware and showerheads – smart water-saving without compromising comfort
Sustainability isn’t just good for the environment — it’s great for long-term running costs too.
3. Smart Control, Smarter Living
Heating and hot water are getting smarter. Homeowners now want systems they can control from anywhere — and they expect intuitive, app-based interfaces.
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Smart thermostats let you schedule and zone heating
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Hot water timers optimise energy use
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Leak detection tech prevents damage before it starts
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Integration with Alexa, Google, or Apple Home for full-home control
We’re helping more clients than ever set up smart systems that are simple to use and fully customisable.
4. Luxury Bathrooms Are the New Normal
Bathrooms are evolving from functional to feel-good spaces — and the plumbing needs to keep up.
Top bathroom heating & plumbing features:
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Heated floors
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Wall-mounted toilets for a sleek look
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Walk-in showers with dual outlets
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In-wall cisterns and hidden pipework
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On-demand hot water systems for endless, consistent flow
Clean lines, minimal clutter, and hidden fittings are in. And it all starts with smart plumbing design.
5. Zoned Heating for Greater Comfort
One temperature doesn’t fit all — especially in modern homes with multiple living areas, bedrooms, and workspaces.
More projects are incorporating:
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Zoned underfloor heating
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Multiple thermostats (NeoStats, Wi-Fi capable)
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Separation of bedrooms vs. living areas
This means better comfort control and lower energy use overall — win-win.
6. Future-Proofing from Day One
Architects, builders, and savvy homeowners are prioritising systems that won’t need to be ripped out in 10 years.
That includes:
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Ducting for future ventilation upgrades
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Pipework planned for future extensions
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Solar-ready hot water cylinders
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Scalable heating systems that grow with your home
Whether it’s a forever home or an investment property, future-ready planning is more popular than ever.
Inspired? Let’s Talk.
We don’t just install plumbing and heating — we help bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re after invisible comfort, energy efficiency, or the latest in smart tech, we’ll design a system that fits your space and your lifestyle.