IKEA shows Kiwis what’s coming with interactive IKEA pop-up experiences via Havas Host
IKEA is giving New Zealanders a first look at product pricing, launching a series of interactive pop-ups ahead of its Sylvia Park store and online shopping opening in just over two weeks.
Located in Christchurch and Wellington, the pop-ups offer the public a chance to explore a curated collection of popular products before IKEA officially opens in New Zealand on 4 December.
Concepted and executed by Havas Host, each pop-up reflects the personality of its city, from Wellington’s unique film history to Christchurch’s punchy street art scene. Local VFX and contemporary artists have created original artwork for the pop-ups, inspired by IKEA’s affordable and well-designed home furnishings.
The experiences are styled in the iconic IKEA blue and yellow, encouraging visitors to walk through thoughtfully arranged spaces, view artist impressions and product selections, and snap photos at specially designed Instagrammable moments.
While the pop-ups won’t offer shopping, Kirsten Hasler, Head of Marketing for IKEA Australia and New Zealand, says they’re designed to spark ideas and give customers a taste of what’s coming when the new store opens: “Every IKEA product is created with affordability, quality, and sustainability in mind, ensuring there’s something for every home and every budget,” Hasler says. “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.”
Says Laura Mahony, Head of Client Experience at Havas Host: “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.”
In Christchurch, from 18 November until 10 December, the pop-up at Cathedral Square taps into the city’s booming street-art trend. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, local artists including Miranda Parkes, Adam Popovic, Dcypher, Kophie Su’a-Hulsbosch, Turumeke Harrington, Sha Marie, Ghostcat, and Wongi “Freak” Wilson will showcase original works inspired by IKEA’s most recognisable pieces.
Wellington’s pop-up celebrates the city’s vibrant film culture. Running from 28 November to 17 December at Odlins Plaza, the experience features movie-inspired posters and trailers created by local illustrators and VFX artists. Each artist playfully reinterprets IKEA design icons through the lens of different movie genres, from Indie Art House to 70s Sci-Fi. Doors open daily from 11am to 7pm.
Alongside the pop-up experiences, IKEA has released a first look at New Zealand pricing. Products range from the well-known $1.99 FRAKTA bag to larger pieces such as the KLIPPAN two-seat sofa and the STOCKHOLM flatwoven rug, both priced at $399. Other favourites include the POÄ NG armchair for $199, the SVARTPOPPEL cushion cover for $9.99, and the IKEA PS LÖMSK swivel armchair for $219.
The first IKEA New Zealand store opens at Sylvia Park, Auckland on 4 December, launching alongside online shopping, home delivery, and Pick Up Points across Aotearoa, making it easier than ever for people nationwide to enjoy the IKEA experience.
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1 Comment
Hi there. I’m interested to understand who is responsible for dismantling the ikea pop up in Wellington and what happens to the furniture as I’m interested in acquiring the three white bookcases on display there. IKEA has directed me to the pop up. I know items aren’t sold there but if there’s anyway they can remain in Wellington I’d be interested in buying them. Thanks. Tracey