The Ministry for the Environment recommends:

• Insulate your home so it stays warm in winter and cool in summer
• Orient windows so your home gets more sun and natural light
• Choose building materials that don’t use or emit harmful chemicals
• Buy appliances that use energy and water efficiently
• Think ahead to make sure your home or renovation will meet your needs in the future, as well as meeting your needs now.

To get an idea of the options available to you, check out www.smarterhomes.org.nz