Outdoor Furniture That Lasts: What NZ Wood You Should Be Using
New Zealand's beautiful outdoor way of life needs furniture that looks good and stands the test of time. When you're planning a dining area on your deck, a place to relax in the garden, or a bench near the firepit, picking the right wood can make or break your project. The right choice leads to furniture that ages well, while the wrong one might not hold up over time.
In this blog, we'll explore what makes wood right for outdoor furniture in New Zealand's changing weather, the top local woods to think about, and how smart furniture design helps it last longer. If you're looking for outdoor furniture timber NZ or curious about weatherproof timber furniture, this guide is for you.
Why Wood Choice Is Key for Outdoor Furniture in NZ
New Zealand's weather throws everything at us—strong sun in summer, salty air near the coast, lots of moisture in the North Island, and cold winters down South. Outdoor furniture here must stand up to changing weather, not just look good for one season.
Using the wrong wood, or even the right wood treated , can lead to swelling, splitting, warping, and rot. High-quality timber paired with clever design and good finishes, can stand up to the elements for decades with little maintenance.
What Makes a Timber "Weatherproof"?
No timber can resist the elements, but some do better than others outdoors. Here's what you should look for:
Natural durability: This means how well the wood resists fungal decay and insect attacks without treatment.
Density and grain structure: Woods that are denser with tight grain keep moisture out better.
Oil content: Some woods (like macrocarpa or teak) make their own oils that keep out moisture and bugs.
Movement class: This shows how much the wood grows or shrinks when moisture changes. Low movement means fewer cracks and less warping.
Top NZ Timbers for Outdoor Furniture That Lasts
1. Macrocarpa – NZ's Down-to-Earth Outdoor Star
Macrocarpa is a popular choice for Kiwis building garden beds, benches, or outdoor tables. This wood has natural durability, with a rustic golden color that ages well to silver-grey. It also grows and often comes from sustainable plantations. At Plankville, we make macrocarpa slabs and flitches that work well for outdoor bench seats, tables, or lounges.
This wood serves as a great option if you want weather-resistant timber furniture that needs little treatment and has a strong sustainability background.
2. Kwila – Tropical Strength, NZ Popularity
Kwila also called Merbau, comes from tropical regions. People prize this hardwood for its density and deep reddish-brown color. It stands up well to changes and has natural oils, so it fights off moisture and bugs. Many folks use it for decks and it looks great with built-in furniture.
But since it's not local, it might not be the greenest choice unless it has FSC approval. If you want something that feels exotic and lasts a long time, Kwila is tough to top.
3. Vitex – Coastal & Eco-Conscious
Vitex, another tropical hardwood, is popular in NZ for decking and outdoor builds. Its color is lighter, it's very stable, and people find it easy to work with. Like Kwila, finding ethical sources is crucial—but when used well, Vitex lasts long and looks beautiful.
4. Cedar – Naturally Resistant and Lightweight
Cedar works great for furniture that needs moving around. It doesn't weigh much, smells nice, and resists decay . While not as hard as Kwila or Vitex, it handles moisture well and fits covered outdoor spaces.
Timber Furniture Design Considerations for NZ Conditions
Picking the right wood is just one piece of the puzzle. The design of outdoor furniture has a big impact on its longevity. Here's what smart design looks like in New Zealand:
Drainage & Airflow
Water shouldn't collect on surfaces. Slatted tops and sloped edges help water flow off. Underneath good airflow keeps things dry and stops mold growth.
Joinery & Construction
Go for strong joinery methods like mortise and tenon or stainless steel fasteners that won't rust. Screws should be hidden or sunk into the wood to cut down on spots where moisture can get in.
Finish & Maintenance
Some woods like macrocarpa can age without any finish. But oils and stains can make the wood last longer and keep its color better. If you live near the coast, putting oil on the wood often helps stop salt from damaging it.
To get ideas on how to use slab timber in custom designs take a look at our Custom Outdoor Bench Guide.
Sourced Built to Last
At Plankville, wood means a lot to us. We pick our slabs and flitches for their unique look, strength, and where they come from. We think great furniture starts with great wood—and that means knowing not just how it looks, but how it holds up in your yard, year after year.
Need some fresh ideas? Our Outdoor Furniture Ideas Blog dives into layouts, styles, and materials to turn your backyard into a host's paradise.
Ways to Extend Furniture Life in NZ
Set up furniture in shaded spots to cut down on UV harm.
Use breathable covers in winter, not plastic sheets that lock in moisture.
Wash with mild soap and water once a year; add oil if needed.
Lift furniture off wet ground to stop water from seeping up.
Choose Wood That Suits NZ Living
Outdoor furniture does more than provide comfort—it's a way to invest in your home enjoyment. Whether you're sipping coffee in the shade or hosting a big summer cookout, picking the right wood makes sure your setup can handle all seasons.
Durability means more than just lasting a long time. It's about being eco-friendly, working well, and making a space that feels like home—rain or shine.
Want to design your own custom wood piece? Check out our top-quality slabs at Plankville's Timber Selection.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Macrocarpa, Kwila, Vitex, and Cedar stand out as top picks. Each option offers a mix of toughness, ability to withstand weather, and good looks that suit New Zealand's environment.
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Some woods like macrocarpa and Kwila have natural toughness and don't need treatment. Still, adding oil or stain can help them last longer and look better.
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If you choose the right wood and take care of it, outdoor timber furniture can stick around for 15 to 25 years or even longer. This depends on how much it's exposed to the elements and how well you look after it.
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Yes, timber from New Zealand like macrocarpa has a positive impact on the environment. It cuts down on transport emissions and comes from plantations that people manage in a sustainable way.
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Yes, you can do this if the furniture is made from timber that stands up to the weather and you take care of it . To make it last longer, you should use covers and keep it off wet ground.
