Are you asking yourself:
If so, you’re not alone. Many New Zealanders grapple with these questions when furnishing their outdoor living areas. The temptation of a “bargain” outdoor lounge set can be strong, but at Outside Space NZ, we know from experience that it’s often a false economy.
We frequently hear from customers who initially “went cheap” only to visit us, seeking a truly lasting solution. This blog will share real-life examples to illustrate the significant differences between budget and quality outdoor furniture, helping you make an informed decision for your Kiwi outdoor space.
1. Mushrooms grew on their sofa
A few years ago, a customer purchased a budget outdoor sofa from a large nationwide discount store. Within three months, mushrooms grew on the ‘faux timber’ armrests. Once they were refunded, they spent a little more with us and now have beautiful, well-made, and truly weatherproof set.
Interestingly, that discount store no longer sells outdoor furniture, suggesting that selling poor-quality, low-cost outdoor furniture ultimately didn’t serve their customers or their business well. In New Zealand’s often damp climate, shortcuts in materials and construction quickly lead to disappointment.
2. The “Outdoor” Furniture Not Meant for Outdoors
Earlier this year, a customer came to us looking for a cantilever umbrella to cover his new outdoor dining table. When asked about its application, he revealed that the instructions inside the carton for his new table, purchased from a well-known furniture store, explicitly stated: “Do not leave table in the sun and protect from moisture.”
Genuine outdoor furniture is designed and built to withstand our unique climate, not just look the part.
3. The Disposable Umbrella Canopy
We recently received an email from someone seeking a replacement canopy for their cantilever umbrella. They’d bought it from a big-box hardware store and were getting no help. While we could assist if the umbrella was purchased from us, our canopies don’t fit other frames. Her disheartened reply: “Seems such a waste to not be able to use the perfectly good structure.“says it all.
This is a common issue with cheap outdoor items. When a component fails, the entire piece becomes landfill because spare parts or compatible replacements aren’t available. A short-term saving often results in long-term waste and frustration.
By contrast, here are three real-life testimonials showcasing the enduring value of choosing a reputable New Zealand Outdoor furniture retailer like Outside Space NZ, and investing in well-made, quality outdoor products:
1. Seven Years On, “The Set Looks Like New Really”
Just this week, we received an online order for a rain cover from a customer who originally bought their corner set from us seven years ago. When we contacted her to ask if she was still happy, her response was unequivocal: “The set looks like new really”
This is a prime example of the longevity of well-made outdoor furniture. It’s a testament to the high-quality, weatherproof materials we specify for all our ranges, specifically chosen to handle New Zealand’s diverse weather conditions. It also demonstrates our commitment to after-sales service, providing accessories like fitted rain covers many years after the initial purchase.
2. Repeat Business from the South Island
Coincidentally, in the same week, we received an email from a South Island customer inquiring about purchasing another set from us. Her opening line said it all: “Hi Team, We purchased a sofa in 2020 from you guys and love it. We are hoping to get another one for a different area…”
What a powerful testament to our products and our business. They are clearly delighted with their outdoor set after five years and are actively seeking to make a repeat purchase. This speaks volumes about the quality and satisfaction delivered by Outside Space NZ.
3. The Text That Made Our Week
In March of this year, completely out of the blue, we received this text from a customer (typos and all):
“Hey guys, My husband and I are just sitting on our outside couch, purchased from you guys almost 5 years ago and saying how amazing it is! It has been outside on our deck in rain hail and shine for all of those years and it honestly still looks brand new. We also purchased some wicker chairs for our outside table and learners for our gin bar – also still looks brand new! Thank you 🙏🏼 and well done!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼”
That text truly made our day! More importantly, it confirmed what we already knew: this customer remains satisfied with her purchase five years on because she’s enjoying the lasting benefits of choosing the best quality outdoor furniture from a reputable New Zealand retailer.
Cheap outdoor sets might cost less upfront, but as these real-life examples show, they rarely survive more than a few harsh New Zealand summers. They often use inferior materials and offer no genuine after-sales support.
By contrast, quality outdoor furniture from Outside Space NZ is built to last. We use:
The ultimate benefit to you, our customer, is the long-term longevity and lasting beauty of your purchase. At Outside Space NZ, we focus on providing exceptional value. This means you invest once and genuinely enjoy your outdoor furniture for a decade or more, making it a true asset to your home.
Ready to invest in outdoor furniture that truly stands the test of time (and the Kiwi weather)?
Visit our showroom in Auckland or explore our extensive range online at Outside Space NZ. We offer nationwide shipping and are proud of our 120+ 5-star reviews from satisfied customers across New Zealand.
Kerry is the co-owner of Outside Space NZ, offering a range of contemporary outdoor furniture for coastal living kiwis seeking premium quality products and design at achievable prices
163 Pilkington Road, Pt. England
Showroom open Friday & Saturday 10-4 and by appointment. Always open online.
163 Pilkington Road, Pt. England (Panmure)
Showroom open Fri & Sat 10-4 and by appointment. Always open online.
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