Cross Lease Conversion Process
Steps to Convert Cross Leases to Fee Simple (Freehold) Titles
Converting your cross lease property to a freehold (fee simple) title is one of the most effective ways to unlock the full value of your land. Freehold ownership gives you greater independence, simplifies future renovations or sales, and often increases property value.
The process may seem complex, but with the right guidance it can be straightforward. Below, we break down the typical steps involved in a cross lease to freehold conversion in Auckland.
Neighbour Agreement
The first step in any potential cross lease conversion is to discuss the proposal with your neighbours on the cross lease. Obtaining written approval is a good first step to ensure that everyone is on the same page, and confirming how costs will be shared is also recommended.
Initial Investigations
The next step is to carry out the work required to understand the existing arrangement on site, enabling us to then prepare the Resource Consent application for Council. This includes a topographic survey and drainage/utility tracing, among other tasks.
Resource Consent
Resource Consent is required to convert cross lease titles in Auckland. In addition to the documentation prepared in Step 1, we will prepare an Assessment of Environmental Effects to submit to Council. This document assesses the proposal against the relevant provisions of the Resource Management Act, the Auckland Unitary Plan, and any other applicable frameworks.
Cadastral Survey
Once Resource Consent has been obtained, our expert surveyors will mark the boundaries and prepare the survey plans (along with various other supporting documents). A copy of the plans are lodged with Auckland Council to obtain s223 approval, and s224c certification may also be required. Final survey plans are submitted to Land Information New Zealand, who process this information and approve the plans.
New Titles
We will liaise with your solicitor to ensure that any documents required by Council are prepared appropriately. Once the survey plans have been approved, and the necessary certificates obtained from Council, the solicitor can apply for your new titles from LINZ to complete the process.
What to Expect
Most conversions take several months to complete, with costs depending on site complexity and council requirements. Every property is unique, which is why professional advice upfront makes all the difference.
Why Work With Us
At Convert My Cross Lease, we manage the entire process—from first checks through to new titles—so you don’t have to worry about the details. Our team of Licensed Surveyors and planners ensure everything runs smoothly.
Ready to Start?
If you’d like to know what’s involved for your property, contact us for a free desktop review. We’ll give you a clear picture of what’s required and the next steps to freehold ownership.