What is a high-performance home?
A high-performance home is built to do more with less – less energy, less waste, and fewer emissions. These homes are tightly sealed, highly insulated, and use efficient systems to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature year-round. Most homes which are built to perform at a high level follow similar principles: airtightness, thermal efficiency, and smart use of energy.
They’re designed to perform – and this includes reducing the level of natural ventilation available by increasing building air tightness. So, a key ingredient in this is continuous, energy efficient, mechanical ventilation, designed to replace the need for reliance on natural ventilation through the building envelope, which, in a highly energy efficient home, is no longer enough.
Why are high performance homes on the rise in New Zealand?
With energy prices rising and climate awareness growing, more New Zealanders are building smarter. High-performance homes can offer better comfort, healthier living, and lower running costs – all while reducing the home’s environmental footprint.
The shift is clear: Kiwis want homes that perform well in all conditions, not just meet the minimum building code.
The key benefits of living in a high-performance home
- Lower power bills – Use less energy to heat, cool, and run your home (up to 90% more efficiency in new homes)
- Year-round comfort – More stability of indoor temperatures in summer and winter
- Healthier living – Better moisture control and air quality: air with fewer allergens improves respiratory health
- Smaller footprint – Reduced energy use and carbon emissions
- Long-term home value – Durable materials and energy-efficient design makes for higher resale value
It’s a home that works with the environment – not against it.
Why ventilation matters – even more!
When a home is sealed to keep heat in, it also traps moisture and indoor pollutants. Without good ventilation, that can lead to condensation, mold, and poor air quality.
A DVS high performance ventilation system solves this by providing controlled, energy efficient ventilation suited to high performance homes. It’s a simple way to protect your home’s performance and your health.
DVS solutions for high-performance homes
In 2025, we’re leading the way with new DVS systems designed specifically for New Zealand’s high-performance homes. Whether you’re building new or upgrading, our solutions can help you future-proof your investment. Find out more about our high-performance home solutions.
Ready to get started?
Have an older home?
Explore our Positive Pressure Systems
Perfect for older homes, these systems are cost-efficient and highly effective at reducing dampness, preventing crying windows, and helping to maintain a drier and healthier home. Explore our Positive Pressure Range here.
Do you have asthma or allergies?
Learn how DVS Home Ventilation
can transform your home today