7 Key Trends Auckland Painters Must Embrace in 2025

The painting industry in New Zealand is undergoing a transformation, driven by sustainability, technology, and evolving consumer preferences. As Auckland painters continue to adapt to these changes, homeowners and businesses can expect more eco-friendly options, innovative finishes, and customized designs that reflect cultural influences. Here are seven key trends shaping the painting landscape in 2025.

1. Sustainability Leads the Way

Environmental responsibility is at the forefront of New Zealand’s painting industry. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints from brands like Dulux and Resene are now the standard, offering improved air quality and reduced environmental impact. Government regulations and consumer awareness are pushing Auckland painters to prioritize sustainable solutions, including water-based paints and eco-friendly painting techniques.

John Matthews, a local painter with over 15 years of experience, notes, “Clients are asking more about eco-friendly options than ever before. People want beautiful spaces without harming the environment.”

Additionally, recyclable paint containers, biodegradable cleaning products, and waste-reduction strategies are becoming common practices, ensuring that painting projects align with New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability.

2. Biophilic Design Inspires Colour Choices

Natural aesthetics continue to shape interior and exterior paint selections. The rise of biophilic design—which integrates natural elements into living spaces—has led to an increased demand for earthy tones such as terracotta, sage green, and warm neutrals. These colours create calming environments that enhance well-being, making them popular choices for residential and commercial spaces.

Lisa Thompson, an Auckland-based interior designer, shares, “We’ve seen a huge rise in clients requesting nature-inspired tones. Homeowners want colours that bring warmth and a sense of relaxation into their space.”

In Auckland, painters are seeing a growing interest in textured wall finishes that mimic natural materials, such as limewash or clay-based paints. These techniques contribute to the organic, nature-inspired aesthetic that is expected to dominate in 2025.

3. Tech Integration Revolutionizes Painting

The intersection of technology and painting is reshaping how homeowners choose and execute painting projects. Augmented Reality (AR) apps from major paint brands allow customers to preview colour choices on their walls before committing. These digital tools help eliminate guesswork, ensuring better decision-making.

Smart paints are also on the rise, offering features such as heat-reflective coatings and self-cleaning surfaces. With Auckland’s varied climate, homeowners are investing in these innovative solutions to improve durability and reduce maintenance costs.

Local painting company Go 1 Day Painting mentions, “Clients love the AR tools because they can visualize their space before we even pick up a brush. It makes the process so much smoother.”

4. Renovation Boom Drives Demand for Repaints

With construction costs soaring, many New Zealand homeowners are opting to renovate rather than build new homes. This has led to an increased demand for professional repainting services. Energy-efficient coatings, such as heat-reflective and insulating paints, are becoming more popular as property owners seek to enhance their homes’ sustainability.

In Auckland, painters are capitalizing on this trend by offering cost-effective repainting solutions that refresh older properties without the need for extensive renovations. From restoring heritage homes to updating modern apartments, repaints are a practical way to add value in a high-cost housing market.

5. Hyper-Personalization in Colour Schemes

Personalized colour choices are taking center stage, with homeowners moving away from generic palettes in favor of unique, statement-making shades. Custom paint mixing and bespoke finishes are in high demand, reflecting individual lifestyles and aesthetic preferences.

Auckland homeowners are embracing bold hues, accent walls, and colour-blocking techniques to create distinctive interiors. As a result, painters are increasingly collaborating with interior designers and colour consultants to craft tailored paint schemes that resonate with their clients’ visions.

“A few years ago, everyone wanted greys and whites. Now, clients are getting adventurous with colours and asking for unique combinations that reflect their personality,” says James Parker, a veteran painter in Auckland.

6. Textured Surfaces Add Depth and Character

Smooth walls are making way for textured finishes, adding dimension and visual interest to both residential and commercial spaces. Some of the most sought-after textures include:

• Venetian plaster for a luxurious, polished look

• Concrete and stucco finishes for an industrial aesthetic

• 3D wall panels and geometric patterns for contemporary interiors

These techniques require skilled craftsmanship, making experienced Auckland painters highly sought after for their ability to execute these specialized finishes with precision.

7. Cultural Narratives Shape Colour Trends

A growing appreciation for Māori heritage and indigenous design is influencing colour choices across New Zealand. Earthy ochres, deep ocean blues, and forest greens inspired by Māori landscapes and traditions are becoming more prevalent in modern homes and businesses.

Many property owners are working with painters to incorporate cultural motifs and symbolic colours that reflect Aotearoa’s identity. This fusion of tradition and contemporary design is creating rich, meaningful spaces that celebrate local heritage while maintaining modern aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

The painting industry in New Zealand is evolving, driven by sustainability mandates, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. For Auckland painters, staying ahead means embracing these trends and offering innovative, high-quality solutions that meet the demands of modern homeowners.