You might have heard scaffolding quoted "per metre" and wondered what that means. The reality is that scaffolding is rarely priced strictly per linear metre — there are more factors at play. Here's how pricing actually works.
How Scaffolding Is Really Priced in NZ
Most scaffolding companies in New Zealand price jobs based on:
Setup and dismantle cost — A fixed fee covering the labour to erect and remove the scaffolding, including transport of equipment to site. This is the biggest single cost on most residential jobs.
Weekly hire rate — A weekly charge for the time the scaffolding is on site. Shorter jobs cost less in hire, but the setup fee still applies.
Equipment costs — Additional costs for special equipment: shrink-wrap, extra lifts, loading bays, safety nets.
Rough Per-Metre Rates in Wellington (2025)
As a rough guide, residential scaffolding in Wellington typically costs:
- Setup/dismantle per linear metre: $60 – $120 per metre of perimeter
- Weekly hire per linear metre: $8 – $15 per metre per week
So a home with a 40-metre perimeter might cost $2,400 – $4,800 to erect and dismantle, plus $320 – $600 per week in hire.
These are rough guides only. The actual cost depends heavily on height, access difficulty, and the specific configuration needed.
Why Per-Metre Rates Can Be Misleading
A quote with a low per-metre rate can still be expensive if it:
- Has high mobilisation or transport fees
- Doesn't include all the components needed (boards, handrails, kickboards, ladders)
- Has a long minimum hire period
Always ask for a fully-inclusive, itemised quote. At Erect It Scaffolding, our quotes include everything — no surprise extras.
Get a Firm Quote for Your Wellington Job
Call Dhillon on 027 886 6688 or use our online quote form. We'll visit your site (or quote from photos and dimensions for straightforward jobs) and give you a firm, all-inclusive price within 24 hours.
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Need scaffolding hire in Wellington? Visit our dedicated scaffolding hire Wellington page — transparent pricing, all suburbs, free quotes within 24 hours.
Also see: Scaffolding Cost Wellington · Cheap Scaffolding Hire Wellington · Residential Scaffolding Wellington · Local Scaffolding Companies Wellington
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