Outdoor Furniture Trends for Summer 2025/26 in New Zealand: What’s In, What’s Out, and What to Invest In

Wondering what outdoor furniture is in style for Summer 2025/26? Looking for the best outdoor furniture trends in NZ this year?

You’re not alone. At Outside Space NZ, we hear these questions every week from customers upgrading their decks, patios, and poolside spaces.

So, what are the biggest outdoor furniture trends in New Zealand for the season? From natural materials to modular living and climate-conscious fabrics, here’s what Kiwis are loving right now — and what’s fading fast.

1. Sustainable Outdoor Furniture Is More Than a Buzzword

What is the most eco-friendly outdoor furniture? In 2025, sustainability isn’t a niche — it’s mainstream. Buyers are actively seeking outdoor furniture that lasts longer, is ultimately recyclable or is made wth FSC-certified materials, and reduces landfill waste. You rarely hear customers talk ‘cheap and cheerful’ or ‘one season’ purchases anymore.

Hot trend for the summer season:

• Aluminium frames (fully recyclable and rust-proof)
• Reclaimed teak and responsibly sourced hardwoods
• Timeless designs that won’t go out of style

At Outside Space NZ, most of our lines feature fully recyclable aluminium frames and solution-dyed acrylics that are built for longevity, last the distance and outsmart polyester alternatives. 

2. Earthy Tones & Textured Neutrals Dominate

What colours are best for outdoor furniture in 2025? Bright colour pops are out. This year is all about calm, natural, and tonal palettes that reflect New Zealand’s native bush, coastal sand dunes, and earthy landscapes.

Top picks for the summer season:

• Olive green, bone white, taupe, warm grey
• Matte black or aged teak for contrast
• Soft linen-texture outdoor cushions in warm neutrals

Bonus tip: Use layered cushions in slightly different tones for a designer look without adding visual clutter.

3. Curves, Soft Lines & Sculptural Silhouettes Still Reign

Are curved outdoor furniture styles still popular? Yes, curves are still trending for Summer 2025, but with a more refined, architectural twist. Think: rounded armrests and gently sloping backrests that echo natural forms. These soft shapes create a sense of calm and flow, perfect for open-plan decks and outdoor rooms.

New for this summer season:

• Scalloped edges and pill-shaped cushions
• Mix of soft curves with angular aluminium frames for contrast

The key aesthetic shift? Simplicity over statement. Instead of overstuffed silhouettes, 2025’s curved furniture is more sculptural, minimalist, and design-forward, ideal for modern New Zealand homes with indoor-outdoor flow.

4. Low-Maintenance Fabrics with High-End Feel

What’s the best fabric for outdoor cushions in NZ? With UV levels among the highest in the world, New Zealanders demand more from our fabrics. In 2025, buyers want cushions that are soft enough to feel like indoor fabric but tough enough to survive summer sun, salt air, and the occasional Pinot Gris spill.

Leading options for the summer season:

• Sunbrella and Agora (solution-dyed acrylics) for best fade resistance
• Quick-dry foam and removable, washable covers
• Light colours with UV inhibitors to reduce fading

Pro tip: Avoid polyester cushions — they’re cheap but fade within a season.

5. Oversized Cantilever Umbrellas for All-Day Shade

What is the best umbrella for NZ sun? How to shade large outdoor areas? Traditional umbrellas just aren’t cutting it anymore. In 2025, large-scale cantilever umbrellas with 360-degree rotation and UV50+ canopies are dominating decks and pool areas.

What’s trending for this summer season:

• Neutral canopy colours (ecru, slate, oatmeal)
• Weighted bases that don’t require floor drilling
• Easy wind-down cranks for all ages to use

Why it matters: NZ sun exposure is serious, so adding shade is a must. You will add life to your furniture, protect your skin, and extend your entertaining season.

6. Final Thought: Trends May Fade, But Quality Doesn’t

At Outside Space NZ, we only offer outdoor furniture that makes sense for New Zealand homes and New Zealand weather. That means:

• UV-resistant, durable fabrics
• Rust-proof frames and quick-dry cushions
• Beautiful, natural tones that last beyond a single summer

Whether you’re furnishing a small balcony or building an outdoor kitchen and lounge, we’ll help you create a space that’s on-trend in 2025 and timeless beyond it.

Frequently Asked Questions We Can Answer in Store When We See You:

“What outdoor furniture lasts longest in NZ sun?”

“Is teak or aluminium better for decks near the sea?”

“How do I clean outdoor cushions without ruining them?”

“Do you offer delivery and assembly in Auckland?”

“What furniture is best for a windy deck?”

Come see us in store, or browse our curated range online at outsidespace.co.nz

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.