AUCKLAND, Friday: IKEA is giving Kiwis an early taste of its range with interactive pop-ups launching ahead of the Sylvia Park store and online shopping going live in just over two weeks.
Christchurch and Wellington each get curated previews, letting people explore popular products before doors officially open on 4 December.
Created by Havas Host, the pop-ups reflect each city’s identity. Wellington leans into film culture, while Christchurch celebrates its street-art scene with original pieces from local artists.
Each space, styled in IKEA blue and yellow, guides visitors through themed areas featuring artist impressions, product highlights and photo-ready moments designed for sharing.
There’s no shopping available, but Kirsten Hasler, Head of Marketing for IKEA Australia and New Zealand, says the goal is to inspire ideas and give customers a feel for what’s coming.
Hasler says every IKEA product is designed around affordability, sustainability and quality to suit a wide range of homes.
“We really wanted to connect with the unique vibe of Christchurch and Wellington, bringing Swedish design and Kiwi creativity together.” – Kirsten Hasler, Head of Marketing for IKEA Australia and New Zealand
“IKEA is a global brand, but we aim to understand what home life is like in all the different cities we’re in. To show Kiwis what we’re all about and introduce our most iconic products, we’ve enjoyed collaborating with local Kiwi talent, letting them put their own spin on our range.
“We really wanted to connect with the unique vibe of Christchurch and Wellington, bringing Swedish design and Kiwi creativity together.”
Laura Mahoney, Head of Client Experience at Havas Host, adds: “At IKEA, understanding life at home is in the brand’s DNA – and entering Aotearoa, we wanted to ensure we did it with that same understanding.
“We saw these pop-ups as an incredible opportunity to help IKEA say HEJ! in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Partnering with incredible local artists and talent was the perfect way to put a Kiwi twist on Swedish design.
“By reimagining IKEA’s most loved pieces through the vibrant lens of Christchurch’s art scene and Wellington’s film culture, we’ve created experiences that hope to spark conversations and connect with the heart of local life.”
Christchurch’s showcase runs 18 November to 10 December in Cathedral Square, with daily opening hours and a strong lineup of local artists.
Wellington’s version runs 28 November to 17 December at Odlins Plaza, featuring movie-inspired posters and trailers reinterpreting IKEA’s design icons.
IKEA has also released its first look at pricing, from the $1.99 FRAKTA bag to the KLIPPAN sofa and STOCKHOLM rug at $399.
The Sylvia Park store opens 4 December with online shopping, nationwide delivery and Pick Up Points. IKEA Family members get $7 parcel delivery for orders over $15 and up to 8kg, with larger deliveries and Pick Up Points available for set fees.
Share this Post
