Hiring a portable cabin is one of the easiest ways to create extra space at home — whether you need a sleepout, a home office, or temporary accommodation. At Portacabin, we focus on making the process clear, simple and supportive from the moment you get in touch.
If you’re considering hiring a cabin, here’s exactly how it works and what to expect at each step.
1. Get in Touch With Our Team
Everything starts with a quick conversation.
You let us know what you need the cabin for — an extra bedroom, temporary living space, a home office, or a practical short-term solution while your housing situation changes.
This helps us understand your goals and recommend the right next steps.
2. Book Your Free Site Visit
A free site visit is one of the most important parts of the process.
During the visit, our team checks:
The space available on your property
Access for delivery
Ground suitability
Where the cabin could be positioned
Any practical considerations you may need to think about
Who owns the property (i.e. rented or family-owned)
This ensures your cabin can be delivered safely and set up correctly.
3. Choose the Right Cabin Option
Once we’ve seen your property and understand your needs, we’ll recommend the cabin option that suits you best.
We’ll also provide:
Hire details
Pricing information
The hire arrangement
Any documentation you may need
If you’re applying for Work and Income support, we can supply the cabin-related information required for your application.
4. Speak With Work and Income (If Needed)
If you’re seeking financial assistance, you’ll need to contact Work and Income directly.
They will assess your eligibility based on your personal situation, income, accommodation costs and the type of support you’re requesting.
Portacabin can provide:
A quote
Hire cost details
Provider information
Confirmation of the hire arrangement
But only Work and Income can confirm whether support is available.
5. Confirm Your Hire Arrangement
Before delivery, you’ll need to confirm your payment has been made.
The hire agreement, including landowner permission, must be completed and a copy sent to Portacabin.
This ensures everything is ready to go on delivery day.
6. Delivery and Set-Up
Once everything is approved, we organise delivery.
Our team will:
Transport the cabin
Position it on your property
Ensure it is level and secure
Make sure the placement matches what was discussed during the site visit
We’ll also talk you through any final practical details, such as power connection or access.
What You May Need to Organise
Before your cabin arrives, it helps to think about:
How the cabin will be used
Space available on your property
Clear access for delivery
Power connection
Landlord approval (if you’re renting) or landowner approval (if the property is owned by a friend or family member)
Any council or property requirements
How long you expect to need the cabin
If you’re unsure, our team can guide you through these during your site visit.
Why Choose Portacabin?
Portacabin is locally owned and operated, servicing the Lower North Island with:
Friendly, honest service
Free site visits
Clear, upfront hire information
Support for Work and Income applications
Fast, reliable delivery and setup
We’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
Need Extra Space? We’re Here to Help
Whether you need temporary accommodation, an extra bedroom, or a practical space at home, our team can walk you through the process and help you choose the right cabin.
Get in touch to book your free site visit.
