What Affects Artificial Grass Pricing?
Area Size
The size of your project plays a major role in overall cost. Larger installations often benefit from improved efficiencies, while smaller projects may have a higher cost per square metre due to fixed installation and preparation costs.
Site Preparation
Before artificial grass can be installed, the existing surface must be properly prepared. This may include excavation, disposal of existing materials, base preparation, edging, and levelling. The amount of preparation required can significantly influence the final project cost.
Drainage Requirements
Every successful artificial grass installation starts with proper drainage. Sites with drainage challenges may require additional preparation or specialised drainage solutions to help ensure long-term performance.
Turf Selection
Artificial grass products vary in appearance, pile height, density, durability, and technology. Premium products generally provide a more natural appearance and enhanced performance, which can affect overall pricing.
What Affects Artificial Grass Pricing?
Area Size
The size of your project plays a major role in overall cost. Larger areas can often benefit from installation efficiencies, while smaller projects may have higher costs per square metre due to fixed preparation and setup requirements.
Site Preparation
Every site is different. Excavation, base preparation, edging, and ground levelling all contribute to the overall project cost. Sites requiring additional preparation may involve higher installation costs.
Drainage Requirements
Proper drainage is essential for long-term performance. Sites with drainage challenges may require additional drainage solutions to help manage water effectively and protect your artificial grass investment.
Turf Selection
Artificial grass products vary in pile height, density, appearance, durability, and technology. Premium products often provide a more natural look, improved comfort, and enhanced long-term performance.
Turf Quality & Technology
Not all artificial grass products are created equal.
Higher-quality turf products often include advanced features designed to improve comfort, durability, appearance, and long-term performance.
At Unreal Lawns & Courts, selected products feature Cool Turf technology, which uses specialised heat-reflective yarns designed to help reduce surface temperatures compared with standard artificial grass. This can be particularly beneficial for families, pets, and outdoor areas exposed to direct sunlight.
While premium turf products may involve a higher initial investment, many homeowners choose them for their improved comfort, appearance, and long-term value.
DIY vs Professional Installation
One of the biggest factors affecting project cost is whether you choose professional installation or install the artificial grass yourself.
DIY installation can reduce labour costs and may suit homeowners who are comfortable with excavation, base preparation, drainage work, and turf installation.
Professional installation provides the benefit of expert site preparation, proper drainage design, seamless joins, and long-term performance.
If you’re considering installing artificial grass yourself, visit our DIY Artificial Grass Installation page for expert advice and installation support.
For a complete overview of the installation process, read our Synthetic Grass Installation in NZ: Complete Step-by-Step Guide.
Is Artificial Grass Worth the Cost?
While artificial grass often costs more upfront than natural lawn, many homeowners find it provides significant long-term value.
Potential benefits may include:
✔ Reduced watering costs
✔ No mowing or lawn care equipment
✔ No fertilisers or lawn treatments
✔ Year-round appearance
✔ Less maintenance and ongoing upkeep
✔ Durable performance in high-use areas
For many homeowners, the long-term savings in maintenance, water use, and lawn repairs help offset the initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial Grass Pricing
How much does artificial grass cost in New Zealand?
Artificial grass pricing varies depending on project size, site preparation requirements, drainage, turf selection, and installation complexity. The best way to obtain accurate pricing is to request a site-specific quote.
What affects the cost of artificial grass installation?
Factors may include excavation, drainage, site access, edging requirements, turf selection, project size, and installation complexity.
Is artificial grass cheaper than natural grass long-term?
Many homeowners find artificial grass can reduce ongoing expenses associated with watering, mowing, fertilising, lawn repairs, and general maintenance.
Can I install artificial grass myself?
Yes. DIY installation can be a good option for homeowners who are comfortable with excavation, base preparation, and turf installation. However, professional installation can help ensure optimal long-term performance.
Does drainage affect artificial grass pricing?
Yes. Proper drainage is critical to the long-term success of artificial grass and may influence overall project costs depending on site conditions.
Is premium artificial grass worth the extra cost?
Higher-quality products often provide improved durability, appearance, comfort, and long-term performance, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
Does Cool Turf technology affect the cost of artificial grass?
Products featuring Cool Turf technology may have different pricing than standard artificial grass products. Many homeowners choose these options for the added comfort and temperature-reduction benefits they can provide.
Why Homeowners Choose Unreal Lawns
At Unreal Lawns & Courts, we help homeowners choose the right artificial grass solution for their property, lifestyle, and budget.
Whether you’re considering a residential lawn, pet-friendly artificial grass, a backyard putting green, or a commercial installation, our team can provide expert advice and tailored recommendations.
Every project is different, and we’re happy to discuss the options available to help you achieve the best long-term result.


