Transform your outdoor space into the ultimate summer haven with these expert tips. From stylish layouts to weatherproof essentials, discover how to host gatherings with ease and elegance.
Summer in New Zealand is about embracing the outdoors. From long, golden evenings to the laughter of friends under the open sky, creating the perfect outdoor setting ensures every moment feels special.

The Porto Sofa and Coronet Armchairs embody the pinnacle of luxury outdoor living, blending elegance with natural charm.
Your outdoor space is more than just a backdrop; it’s a canvas for creating experiences with friends and family. From thoughtfully chosen furniture to clever styling touches, crafting an inviting and functional space can make every gathering unforgettable. In this guide, we’ll share tips on transforming your outdoor area into a haven of effortless elegance, helping you host with confidence and style.
Setting the Stage: Layout and Flow
The foundation of any great gathering is a space that feels welcoming and intuitive. When planning your outdoor setup, if space allows, think of creating zones: one for lounging, another for dining, and perhaps a small corner for mingling or drinks. The goal is to create a natural flow, making movement effortless and ensuring guests feel relaxed and at ease.
Arranging for Comfort and Connection
Position your outdoor lounge furniture to promote conversation-friendly groupings. Modular sofas are an excellent choice—they’re versatile, allowing you to customise layouts to suit the size and vibe of your gathering. Complement the seating with side tables or ottomans to ensure everything is within arm’s reach.
In smaller spaces, opt for compact yet comfortable pieces that maximise functionality. A pair of inviting armchairs with a stylish side table can create the perfect setting for relaxed conversations and cosy gatherings.

Experience the Largo Armchairs with upholstered backrests—where ultimate comfort meets cutting-edge outdoor engineering.
The Power of Pathways and Anchors
Create flow between outdoor zones with visual anchors such as outdoor rugs, planters, or a strategically placed coffee table. These elements help define zones without making the space feel cluttered. Leave clear pathways between areas so guests can move freely—no one wants to navigate a maze while balancing a drink!
The Centrepiece: Choosing the Right Dining Table
The dining table is the heart of any outdoor gathering, where meals are savoured, stories are shared, and memories are made. Choosing the right dining table isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about selecting a piece that enhances functionality and stands up to the demands of al fresco dining.
With a curated selection from our exclusive European brands, we offer outdoor dining solutions to suit a variety of styles and preferences, and budgets.
Materials that Stand the Test of Time
New Zealand’s unique climate calls for dining tables that are as durable as they are beautiful. Look for FSC-certified teak or powder-coated aluminium—both are designed to withstand sun, rain, and salt air without losing their appeal. Teak tables bring natural warmth and a timeless aesthetic, while aluminium options often feature sleek, modern lines. TechTeak offers a modern take on traditional teak, combining the warmth and beauty of natural wood with the convenience of low maintenance.
Flexible Options for Every Occasion
For those who love hosting large gatherings, extendable tables are a game-changer. These versatile designs adapt to the occasion, whether you’re hosting a more intimate dinner or a festive feast. You can also pair your table with stackable or foldable chairs for an adaptable setup that’s easy to store when not in use.

Why Outdoor Lounge Furniture is Essential for Summer Gatherings
Your outdoor lounge furniture is the heart of your hosting space, providing the comfort and style needed for unforgettable gatherings. A well-chosen setup turns your outdoor area into an inviting extension of your home, combining effortless elegance with unmatched functionality.
The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Style
Say goodbye to stiff, uninspired outdoor seating. Today’s designs bring the comfort of indoor living to outdoor spaces, with durability that meets New Zealand’s climate challenges. Look for deep seating, plush cushions, or even fully upholstered designs that feel as good as they look. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics and marine-grade foam ensure cushions remain vibrant and comfortable, no matter how strong the Kiwi sun shines.

Protect your investment with our high-quality, custom-fit covers, designed to keep your outdoor furniture looking pristine.
Modular sofas, in particular, are a standout choice for their flexibility. Arrange them into cosy corners for intimate gatherings or expansive setups for larger events. Add a mix of armchairs and ottomans to round out the space and offer versatile seating options.
TechTeak delivers the timeless warmth and beauty of teak—without the maintenance. It is the perfect modern solution for outdoor living.
Weatherproof Wonders
New Zealand’s unpredictable weather demands furniture that can handle it all. Materials like TechTeak—a revolutionary alternative to traditional teak—offer the same warmth and aesthetic with no maintenance. Pair TechTeak designs with weather-resistant fabrics that repel water and resist fading to help ensure your investment remains stunning season after season.
Styling Touches: Elevating Your Outdoor Space
Once the foundational pieces are in place, it’s time to layer in the details that bring your space to life. Thoughtful styling can turn a functional setup into one that feels uniquely yours, creating an atmosphere guests won’t want to leave.
Add Comfort with Cushions and Throws
Soft furnishings are a simple yet impactful way to make your seating more inviting. Add scatter cushions in soft neutrals for cohesion or bold patterns for a pop of personality and vibrancy. Throws not only provide a cosy touch for cooler evenings but also double as an opportunity to layer textures and tones.
An outdoor throw is the ultimate accessory, keeping you and your guests cosy as cooler summer evenings settle in.
Ground Your Space with an Outdoor Rug
An outdoor rug does more than help define your seating area; it adds warmth, texture, and a sense of cohesion. Neutral tones ground a minimalist look, while bold patterns bring playful energy and a touch of fun to your outdoor setting. Look for rugs made from durable, weatherproof materials to ensure they can handle the outdoor elements.
Define and elevate your space with an outdoor rug. Add texture, anchor your furniture, and bring warmth to your outdoor setting.
Bring Greenery to the Foreground
Plants and greenery are the finishing touches that help tie everything together. Large potted palms or ferns add drama, while smaller succulents or herbs bring charm and practicality. Position them strategically to soften hard edges or fill empty corners.
Lighting the Way: Ambience After Dark
As the sun sets, the right lighting can transform your outdoor space into a warm and inviting haven. Thoughtful illumination not only enhances the aesthetic of your setup but also creates a magical atmosphere that keeps the gathering going well into the evening.

As dusk settles, outdoor lighting adds depth and interest, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere while highlighting key accents.
Layered Lighting for Depth and Style
To achieve a balanced look, use a combination of lighting sources. String lights draped over your seating area or dining table lend a soft, romantic glow, while solar-powered lanterns scattered around the space create subtle pockets of light. Elevate your modular sofa setup with sleek, battery-powered floor lamps, adding a modern edge and convenient lighting to your space.
Hosting with Ease: Practical Tips for Stress-Free Gatherings
Entertaining should be enjoyable for the host as much as the guests. A bit of preparation and clever planning can ensure that your gathering runs smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy the company and savour the occasion.
Set Up a Drinks Station
A self-serve drinks station encourages guests to help themselves, giving you more time to relax and enjoy their company. A sturdy outdoor sideboard or trolley makes an ideal drinks station—stock it with a variety of options, from chilled wine to sparkling water, and don’t forget garnishes like fresh herbs or fruit slices.
A prepped bar trolley keeps everything at your fingertips, letting you relax and enjoy the moment as your guests arrive.
Keep the Menu Simple but Delicious
Focus on dishes that can be prepared in advance, such as platters of antipasto, fresh salads, or slow-cooked meats. This reduces last-minute stress and allows you to enjoy the company of your guests. For outdoor-friendly fare, think finger foods that are easy to eat standing or sitting.
Plan for the Weather
New Zealand’s summer weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared. Have umbrellas or a shade sail in place to protect against unexpected heat, and keep a few throws handy for cooler evenings. For unexpected downpours, consider a stylish gazebo or retractable awning. Our pergola options combine elegance and functionality, offering all-weather protection while enhancing your outdoor aesthetic.
The Alcova Collection by Atmosphera offers dependable protection with a touch of elegance, available in three versatile setups: Dining, Lounge, and Daybed.
Sustainability Meets Sophistication
At Wolf & South, sustainability is woven into the heart of our designs. Opting for premium outdoor furniture isn’t just an investment in style and comfort—it’s a commitment to quality and eco-conscious living.
Durable Materials, Less Waste
Choose furniture crafted from materials like FSC-certified teak, which ensures responsible forestry practices, or TechTeak, a low-maintenance, recyclable alternative to natural wood. Aluminium frames and weather-resistant fabrics are also excellent choices, offering durability and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Timeless Designs for Longevity
Fast furniture may come and go, but premium outdoor pieces are made to last. Timeless aesthetics mean your furniture remains stylish even as trends evolve, and high-quality craftsmanship ensures it stands the test of time, outdoors.

A Greener Choice
Every piece in the Wolf & South collection is selected with sustainability in mind. From brands that champion eco-friendly practices to materials that are recyclable or sustainably sourced, you can feel good about your choices while creating a space that truly reflects your values.
Your Outdoor Space Awaits
With the right mix of thoughtful design, premium furniture, and personal touches, your outdoor space can become the perfect spot for summer gatherings—right in the comfort of home.
Whether it’s an intimate evening under the stars or a lively celebration with friends and family, an elegant and functional setup ensures your guests feel welcomed and relaxed.

At Wolf & South, we’re passionate about helping you bring your vision to life. From weatherproof lounge seating to sophisticated dining solutions, our expertly curated collections are designed to suit New Zealand’s unique outdoor lifestyle.
Explore our range today, and let’s make your summer hosting dreams a reality. See our curated collection catalogue and discover premium outdoor lounge furniture, dining solutions, and more—tailored for New Zealand’s unique conditions and lifestyle.