A timber gate is one of the most useful upgrades you can make to your property. Whether you need to secure the side of your house, create a safe area for pets, tidy up your driveway entrance, or simply add privacy, a DIY timber gate is a practical and affordable project that most Kiwi homeowners can complete in a weekend.
At Renovation Warehouse Whangārei, we supply a huge range of timber, posts, reclaimed materials, hinges, latches, and gate hardware — everything you need to build a gate that’s both durable and great-looking. Here’s how to get started.
Why Build Your Own Timber Gate?
A custom-built gate gives you more control over the style, size, and strength. It offers several key benefits:
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Affordable: Building with treated pine or reclaimed timber costs much less than buying a pre-made gate.
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Custom fit: Make it the exact width and height you need — perfect for tricky or uneven spaces.
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Stronger construction: Use quality timber and hardware for long-term durability.
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Better design options: Choose between vertical boards, horizontal slats, modern screening, or rustic reclaimed styles.
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NZ-ready materials: Build with outdoor-rated H3.2 or H4 timber designed for New Zealand’s climate.
Planning Your DIY Gate
Before you start cutting timber, consider:
1. Gate Purpose
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Side access gate
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Driveway gate
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Garden or courtyard entry
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Pet or child safety gate
Your purpose will determine the style and hardware you use.
2. Gate Size
Measure the opening at the top, centre, and bottom. Fences in NZ are rarely perfectly straight — so measure carefully.
3. Timber Selection
For outdoor gates, NZ standards recommend:
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H3.2 treated pine for rails, battens, and frames
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H4 or H5 treated posts if setting new gate posts into the ground
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Reclaimed timber for a rustic, character look
4. Hardware
Renovation Warehouse stocks affordable, durable gate hardware:
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Heavy-duty hinges
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D-latches or drop bolts
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Screws, nails & brackets
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Galvanised or stainless steel fixings for outdoor use
Materials You’ll Need
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100×50 or 150×25 H3.2 timber for the frame
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100×25 or 150×25 timber boards or slats
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100×100 H4 or H5 posts (if installing new posts)
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Exterior screws and fasteners
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Hinges (strap or T-hinges for side gates; heavy-duty hinges for driveways)
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Gate latch, drop bolt or barrel bolt
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Exterior stain, oil, or paint
How to Build a Simple DIY Timber Gate
1. Build the Frame
Cut your frame pieces to size and screw them together in a rectangle using exterior screws.
For added strength, add a diagonal brace from the bottom hinge side to the top opposite corner — this prevents sagging.
2. Add the Timber Boards or Slats
Fix your timber boards vertically or horizontally across the frame.
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Leave small gaps for airflow
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Or butt them tight together for privacy
Horizontal slats will match modern NZ fence designs and privacy screens.
3. Install the Gate Posts (If Needed)
Set new H4 posts into concrete at least 600–700 mm deep.
Make sure the posts are perfectly plumb — this affects how well the gate swings.
4. Hang the Gate
Attach the hinges to the gate first, then hold the gate in position and fix the hinges to the post.
Use blocks or timber offcuts under the gate to keep it level during installation.
5. Add the Latch
Fit a simple latch for garden gates or a stronger system for larger driveway gates.
6. Finish the Timber
Stain, oil, or paint the gate with a quality exterior finish to protect it from NZ sun and rain.
Gate Design Ideas for Kiwi Homes
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Modern slat gate: Horizontal slats with small gaps for a clean, architectural look.
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Traditional vertical board gate: Simple, strong, classic.
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Rustic reclaimed timber gate: Weathered boards, perfect for lifestyle blocks or cottages.
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Decorative top detail: Add a pergola-style top, lattice, or feature edging.
Your DIY Timber Gate Starts Here
A well-built gate improves security, privacy, and street appeal — and building it yourself is easier than you think. With quality materials and hardware from Renovation Warehouse Whangārei, you can create a gate that looks great and lasts for years.
Visit Renovation Warehouse today for timber, hardware, reclaimed materials, and everything you need to build your own DIY timber gate.
If this all still sounds a bit too much like hard work, or is beyond your skills or tools you have on hand, we also have a big range of ready made wooden gates you can buy online right here!