Concrete driveways in Auckland run $120 to $180 per square metre and last 40 years or more with proper base prep. Asphalt costs less upfront at $90 to $140 per square metre but needs resealing every few years and typically lasts 15 to 25 years.

Resin-bound surfacing sits at the premium end, $150 to $250 per square metre, and can match concrete for longevity if the base underneath is sound.

Three driveway surfaces compared

Smooth dark grey driveway curving up to an Auckland home

Concrete

$120 to $180 per square metre. Lasts 40 years or more with a properly prepared base, and handles Auckland's reactive clay better than a flexible surface.

Asphalt

$90 to $140 per square metre upfront, the cheapest option, but needs resealing every 3 to 5 years and typically lasts 15 to 25 years. Softens in hot weather under a heavy vehicle parked in one spot.

Resin-bound

$150 to $250 per square metre, the most expensive option. Permeable and the best-looking of the three on a flat site, but only lasts if the base beneath it is sound.

Grip and slope

On a steep driveway, a broom or exposed aggregate concrete finish gives grip that asphalt and some resin surfaces can't match, especially in wet weather.

What we install

We build concrete and asphalt driveways. We don't install resin-bound surfacing ourselves, but we'll give you an honest comparison so you can choose what's right for your site.

Newly poured concrete driveway curving to a white villa during landscaping

Which surface suits your site

The right choice depends on your slope, soil and how long you're staying. If you're staying put, concrete poured and finished properly is the safest long-term choice on Auckland's clay. If budget is tight and the drive is long, asphalt buys you time. Resin-bound is worth the premium if kerb appeal is the priority and the site is flat.

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

Get concrete and asphalt priced side by side

We install both, so we'll give you an honest, no-obligation comparison for your specific site rather than steering you toward one option.

FREE QUOTE

FAQ

Which is cheaper, concrete or asphalt for a driveway?

Asphalt is usually cheaper upfront at $90 to $140 per square metre, compared to $120 to $180 for concrete. Over the driveway's life concrete is usually the better value, since it lasts longer and needs less maintenance.

Is resin driveway better than concrete?

Resin-bound surfacing looks the most decorative of the three and is permeable, which helps with stormwater. It costs more upfront, $150 to $250 per square metre, and only lasts as long as concrete if the base underneath is properly prepared.

Which driveway surface lasts the longest?

A well-laid concrete driveway typically lasts 40 years or more, longer than asphalt's 15 to 25 years. Resin-bound can match concrete's lifespan but only if the base beneath it is sound.

What's the best driveway surface for a steep or sloped site?

Concrete, particularly a broom or exposed aggregate finish, gives the best grip on a steep driveway. Asphalt can soften and creep in hot weather, and some resin surfaces are less grippy on a slope.

Do you install resin-bound driveways?

No, we specialise in concrete and asphalt driveways. We're happy to give you an honest comparison against resin so you can make the right call for your site, even though we don't install it ourselves.

Rated 4.7/5 on Google Reviews

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

Google Review

“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.

Google Review

“Redone our driveway and in good time and well priced, working with us to minimise impact to our customers, very professional and impressive result.”

JR Garage

Google Review

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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