Blog

Government backs wool in construction

by | Apr 17, 2025

From 1 July 2025, government building and civil projects will need to use wool products, such as insulation, carpet, acoustic panels and landscaping textiles. That means any new government project over $9 million, or refurbishment over $100,000, will need to consider wool. If they don’t use it, they’ll need to explain why.

It’s a big deal for our local wool industry – and great news for anyone who wants to see more local materials in our buildings. At Terra Lana, we’ve already made big inroads to get more insulation into commercial buildings. We have a specification and sales support team and nationwide installation partners ready to go.

Why the move?

The government’s decision to prioritise wool in public buildings and civil projects – a directive across all 130+ agencies – is about more than just supporting local industry. It’s about backing a material that’s safe, sustainable and proven to perform. Wool is naturally moisture-regulating and durable, with benefits that support healthier, longer-lasting buildings. These qualities make it an ideal fit for public buildings where occupant wellbeing and longevity should be prioritised.

It’s also a vote of confidence in New Zealand’s rural sector. By directing agencies to use wool, the government is helping to create stable demand for strong wool – a fibre with deep roots in Aotearoa’s identity. This move supports our farmers, strengthens regional economies, and reinforces New Zealand’s reputation as a global leader in natural, sustainable materials.

Industry response

As reported in Farmers Weekly, Federated Farmers meat and wool chair Toby Williams described the move as ‘a clear vote of confidence in the future of New Zealand wool as a natural and sustainable product.’ John McWhirter, Chief Executive of Wools of New Zealand, echoed that sentiment, saying the policy ‘reinforces New Zealand’s global reputation as a leader in natural, sustainable fibre production.’

Kara Biggs, General Manager of Campaign for Wool NZ, addressed the policy’s phrasing in an interview with Rural Exchange – ‘where practical and appropriate’ – by emphasising that this isn’t just about upfront costs, but long-term value. ‘Wool stacks up,’ she said. ‘It’s a value conversation now; it’s not a cost conversation.’

How we can help

We’ve been doing this for a while – since 1999, in fact – and we’ve got the products, documentation and know-how to make it easy for you.

Compliance-ready: Our acoustic and thermal insulation products meet building code requirements and are suitable for both new builds and refurbishments.

Sustainability credentials: Our products are Eco Choice Aotearoa certified and Declare labelled, contributing to Green Star and other certification goals.

Waste-free installs: With an in-house recycling process, we offer a complimentary take-back process for all offcuts post installation – helping reduce environmental impact and simplifying clean-up.

Proven track record: Our Terra Lana wool insulation and landscaping textiles, such as DagMat, are all proven products in Aotearoa. See our recent case studies.

Talk to our team

If you’d like to talk through your next project, contact Brad, our specification manager. You can reach him at brad.s@terralana.co.nz.

Moisture-saving weed control for native planting at scale

Moisture-saving weed control for native planting at scale

Biodegradable wool DagMat boosts plant growth in new wetland

Biodegradable wool DagMat boosts plant growth in new wetland

Government backs wool in construction

Government backs wool in construction

Drop-in floor insulation for timber suspended floors

Drop-in floor insulation for timber suspended floors

Navigating H1: Supporting specifications & calculations

Navigating H1: Supporting specifications & calculations

Terra Lana achieves Eco Choice certification

Terra Lana achieves Eco Choice certification

Camp Glenorchy: sustainable design with Terra Lana wool insulation

Camp Glenorchy: sustainable design with Terra Lana wool insulation

Wool’s Carbon-Sinking Properties Ideal for Sustainable Construction

Wool’s Carbon-Sinking Properties Ideal for Sustainable Construction

Tuhiraki AgResearch – A world-leading research centre for natural products 

Tuhiraki AgResearch – A world-leading research centre for natural products 

Te Huhi Raupō, Taranaki Base Hospital Renal Unit – a globally recognised sustainable building

Te Huhi Raupō, Taranaki Base Hospital Renal Unit – a globally recognised sustainable building

Custom manufacturing for optimal thermal performance and less waste

Custom manufacturing for optimal thermal performance and less waste

Red List Free wool insulation helps meet the Living Building Challenge

Red List Free wool insulation helps meet the Living Building Challenge

New traditional homes are insulated with wool to last generations

New traditional homes are insulated with wool to last generations

Committed partners help close the recycling loop

Committed partners help close the recycling loop

Ethos Homes choose wool insulation for Passive House homes 

Ethos Homes choose wool insulation for Passive House homes 

From farm to market: Redefining wool supply

From farm to market: Redefining wool supply

Sustainable materials elevate rural home’s energy efficiency

Sustainable materials elevate rural home’s energy efficiency

Wool Products are the best choice for your home

Wool Products are the best choice for your home

Our Wool Story

Our Wool Story

Elevating Commercial Projects with Wool Products: Sustainability Meets Innovation

Elevating Commercial Projects with Wool Products: Sustainability Meets Innovation

Elevating Architectural Sustainability: Harnessing the Power of Wool Products.

Elevating Architectural Sustainability: Harnessing the Power of Wool Products.

The Importance of Sustainable Choices in Contemporary Architecture.

The Importance of Sustainable Choices in Contemporary Architecture.

Green Landscaping with Wool: Sustainable Solutions for Landscapers

Green Landscaping with Wool: Sustainable Solutions for Landscapers

Sparks Rd Reserve

Sparks Rd Reserve

Quafies Rd reserve

Quafies Rd reserve

CNC Northern Corridor Motorway

CNC Northern Corridor Motorway

Taylors Mistake

Taylors Mistake

The Wall House

The Wall House

Wairarapa Terrace

Wairarapa Terrace

Sustainable change – The future of our construction industry

Sustainable change – The future of our construction industry

Christchurch Arts Centre

Christchurch Arts Centre

Sales & Specifications

Contact our team to find out which Terra Lana product is right for your project.