Plain concrete is the cheapest driveway finish in Auckland at around $90 per square metre and up, followed by coloured concrete at roughly $110 to $140, exposed aggregate at $120 to $150, and stamped concrete at $130 to $170 per square metre.

All four last around the same length of time when the base is prepared properly, since longevity comes from what's underneath, not the finish on top.

Finishes compared at a glance

Asphalt driveway beside a dark shed, installed by Slab Lab in Auckland

Plain concrete

The most affordable and lowest-maintenance option, starting at around $90 per square metre. No colour to fade and no pattern to trap dirt.

Coloured concrete

Roughly $110 to $140 per square metre. Matches your home's exterior but needs resealing on schedule to stop UV fading.

Exposed aggregate

Around $120 to $150 per square metre. Textured, slip-resistant surface, ideal for sloped or shaded driveways that stay damp.

Stamped concrete

The most decorative and most expensive at $130 to $170 per square metre. Needs the most frequent resealing to protect the pattern.

Durability is the same

All four last 25 to 30 years when the base, reinforcing and drainage are done properly. Durability comes from what's underneath, not the finish.

Asphalt driveway beside a dark shed, installed by Slab Lab in Auckland

Which finish is worth it

If you're staying long-term and want the lowest-maintenance option, plain or coloured concrete makes sense. If your driveway is sloped, shaded or near a pool, exposed aggregate earns its higher price. If kerb appeal is the priority, stamped concrete gives the most decorative result.

Worker finishing a freshly poured concrete driveway at a modern home

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FAQ

What's the cheapest concrete driveway finish in Auckland?

Plain, broom-finished concrete is the cheapest option, starting at around $90 per square metre supplied and laid. Coloured, exposed aggregate and stamped finishes all cost more due to added materials and labour.

Is exposed aggregate concrete slippery when wet?

No, the opposite. Exposed aggregate's textured surface gives better grip underfoot than plain or stamped concrete, which is why it's a common choice for sloped driveways, pool surrounds and shaded areas that stay damp.

Which concrete finish needs the least maintenance?

Plain concrete needs the least upkeep, since there's no colour to fade or fine surface detail to protect. Coloured and exposed aggregate need periodic resealing and cleaning, and stamped concrete needs the most frequent resealing.

Does a more expensive finish last longer?

Not really. All four finishes last a similar length of time, generally 25 to 30 years, because durability comes mainly from the base preparation, reinforcing and drainage underneath the slab, not from the surface finish itself.

Can I mix finishes on one driveway?

Yes, plain concrete borders with an exposed aggregate or stamped centre panel is a common way to add decorative appeal while keeping costs down, since only part of the area carries the higher-cost finish.

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Customer reviews

“Zak and Shane were awesome. Everything was done professionally, on time and they stick to their quote. Easily one of the best experience I’ve had with tradespeople. I wouldn’t hesitate to call them for another job - and very happy to vouch for their work.”

Francis L

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“Used Slab Lab for a driveway at my business in Kumeu west Auckland. 5* service and fantastic finished job. Had this company referred by a friend and must say they lived up-to their promises. Great communication start to finish. Would 100% use them again.”

Elliot C.

Google Review

“Zak and Shane did amazing and expectional job on my driveway concrete. Highly recommended and high quality workmanship. On time and friendly team. Good job SlabLab. 5 stars.”

Jason T.

Google Review

“If you need a concrete driveway look no further!! I highly recommend. From my initial enquiry right through to completing our driveway, Zak and the team were very professional and proficient. Communication was on point, pricing was very competitive, and most importantly, they did a great job. A++”

Danny R.

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“We needed the concrete path of our rental dug up and replaced and we found the guys did a great job and at a great price. Will be recommending them to our friends and family.”

Kim M.

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Newly poured concrete driveway curving to a white villa during landscaping
Curved concrete driveway under construction on a large site with cones and a work ute
Curved plain concrete driveway beside a white house with open lawn
Coloured exposed-aggregate concrete patio beside a brick home and garden
Wide charcoal concrete driveway curving up to a tree-screened Auckland home
Smooth charcoal concrete driveway curving past a landscaped Auckland property
New plain concrete driveway in front of a cream weatherboard Auckland house
Freshly poured concrete driveway curing between a timber fence and a hedge
Long concrete driveway running through a rural Auckland property toward farmland
Wide curving concrete driveway in front of a modern white Auckland home
Plain concrete driveway apron in front of a large blue garage shed
Smooth concrete path running between a white fence and a planted garden border