Designing Schools in Aotearoa New Zealand (DSNZ) standards set out requirements you must follow when designing or planning to do work in a school.
It is an easily readable lead document in a suite of documents. The additional documents (SGR and DQLS requirements) are more technical, but also applicable and useful to know about.
The standards aim for school property that is:
- consistent
- durable and easy to maintain
- resilient
- of enduring benefit to all learners and their communities
- meeting our policies.
When the design requirements apply
The standards are mandatory for new build projects. You should meet them where possible (practicable) when completing maintenance and refurbishments. This applies regardless of who owns the property or funds a project.
Download the DSNZ
DSNZ is the principal document in our suite of design standard and guideline documents. It sets out the requirements in an easy-to-understand form for all audiences.
Designing schools in AotearoaThe following amendments apply to the DSNZ:
DSNZ amendment 2..12.5 lifts