Top Tile Trends In New Zealand For 2025: Styles, Colors, And Design Tips For Modern Homes

Welcome to your go-to guide on the latest tile trends in New Zealand for 2025. Whether you’re planning a full home renovation or just refreshing your kitchen or bathroom, knowing what’s in style can help you make smart, lasting choices. From earthy tones and natural textures to bold patterns and sustainable materials, this year’s tile trends blend beauty with practicality. In this post, you’ll discover what’s trending, what’s fading out, and how to choose the right tile for your space—without following fads blindly. Let’s dive into what’s shaping Kiwi homes this year.

The latest tile trends in New Zealand for 2025 include textured and 3D tiles, natural stone-look finishes, large-format styles, warm earthy tones, and sustainable locally-made options. Matte surfaces, checkerboard patterns, and retro-inspired designs are also gaining popularity in Kiwi homes.

Why Tile Trends Are Changing In 2025

Tile trends in New Zealand are shifting fast, and 2025 is shaping up to be a year of big changes. The way we live, work, and design our homes has evolved, and that shift is being reflected in how Kiwis are choosing tiles. Here’s what’s driving these changes:

Influence Of Global Design Movements

Global design trends are making a strong impact on New Zealand homes. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are exposing homeowners to styles from Europe, Scandinavia, and Japan. These influences are bringing in more organic textures, minimalist finishes, and neutral tones. People are leaning toward design choices that feel calm, clean, and timeless—styles that prioritize function as much as appearance. Global design expos and interior design shows are also highlighting natural materials and handcrafted looks, which are now being echoed in NZ tile selections.

Post-COVID Design Preferences: Wellness, Hygiene, Simplicity

The pandemic reshaped how people think about their homes. After spending so much time indoors, homeowners now want spaces that support wellness and are easy to maintain. Tiles play a major role in achieving that. Smooth surfaces that are easy to clean, anti-bacterial coatings, and finishes that resist mold are more in demand. There’s also a stronger push for simplicity—decluttered spaces, natural light, and soft, earthy colors are becoming the norm. Tiles that create a sense of calm and cleanliness are leading the way in 2025.

Rise In Home Renovations And New Builds Across NZ

New Zealand’s housing market has seen a spike in renovations and new construction. More people are upgrading their homes, whether to increase value, modernize outdated designs, or build from scratch. With that comes a higher demand for design-savvy materials like tiles. Renovators are looking for materials that make a statement, stand the test of time, and reflect personal taste. Builders are sourcing tile options that meet durability standards while keeping aesthetics in mind. As a result, tile choices in 2025 are more considered, more varied, and more customized.

Sustainability And Local Sourcing Driving Choices

Environmental awareness is shaping tile trends across the country. Homeowners and designers are paying closer attention to where tiles come from and how they’re made. There’s a rising demand for eco-friendly tiles made from recycled materials or produced using sustainable practices. Locally-sourced options are also gaining popularity, reducing the carbon footprint tied to international shipping. Supporting New Zealand-based suppliers also helps the local economy, which many Kiwis are prioritizing in their purchasing decisions.

These four factors combined are setting a new direction for tile design in 2025. It’s not just about looks anymore—it’s about lifestyle, values, and making thoughtful choices. Whether you’re renovating a bathroom or planning a full home build, understanding these influences will help you choose tiles that are both stylish and future-proof.

Top Tile Trends In New Zealand For 2025

The tile trends shaping New Zealand homes in 2025 reflect a clear shift toward comfort, style, and sustainability. From natural textures to practical finishes, these trends offer both visual appeal and lasting function. Whether you’re renovating a bathroom or designing a new open-plan living space, here’s what to look out for this year.

Textured And 3D Tiles

These tiles bring surfaces to life by adding depth and tactile interest. Instead of flat, uniform walls, homeowners are now choosing raised patterns, waves, and ridges that play with light and shadow.

• Why it’s trending: Textured tiles create visual movement and a sense of craftsmanship. They’re perfect for feature walls, modern bathrooms, or even hallway statements where flat tiles would feel too plain.
• Best used in: Bathrooms, entryways, and accent walls.
• Take note: Look for NZ suppliers like Tile Space or Artisan Co who stock a growing range of these sculptural designs.

Natural Stone-Look Tiles

Stone-look tiles continue to grow in popularity for their timeless feel and durability. Think marble, slate, limestone, and travertine—without the price tag or maintenance issues that come with real stone.

• Why Kiwis love them: These tiles add a grounded, natural feel to any space. They blend seamlessly with New Zealand’s outdoor-focused lifestyle and work well in both urban and rural homes.
• Best used in: Kitchens, patios, and showers where natural tones and hardwearing surfaces are a must.

Large-Format Tiles

Bigger tiles are dominating 2025 for one simple reason: they make any space feel more open and clean. With fewer grout lines, large-format tiles create a seamless, modern finish that’s both stylish and easy to maintain.

• Why it works: They’re ideal for making small rooms appear larger. The extended surface reduces visual clutter and highlights clean lines, especially in minimalist interiors.
• Best used in: Bathrooms, open-plan living areas, and kitchens.

Warm Neutrals And Earthy Tones

The era of grey tiles is fading. In 2025, you’ll see more warm neutrals like beige, sand, terracotta, clay, and olive green taking over showrooms and home interiors.

• Why it matters: These colors create a calm, welcoming atmosphere. They also reflect the natural beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes, from golden beaches to forest-covered hills.
• Best used with: Timber flooring, stone countertops, and woven textures for a cohesive design.

Checkerboard Patterns And Retro Revival

Designers are reaching into the past and bringing back checkerboard patterns, but with a fresh twist. While black and white remains a classic combo, soft pastels and unexpected pairings are adding a fun, updated vibe.

• Why it’s trending: It blends nostalgia with modern style. Checkerboard tiles feel bold yet familiar, and they instantly draw attention without overpowering a space.
• Best used in: Entryways, powder rooms, kitchens, and small commercial spaces like cafes.

Sustainable And Locally-Made Tiles

Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s expected. More New Zealand homeowners want to know the story behind their tiles: where they came from, how they were made, and whether they’re eco-friendly.

• Why it’s important: Tiles made from recycled materials or sourced locally support lower carbon emissions and ethical production. Choosing local brands also helps support Kiwi businesses.
• Where to find them: Check out manufacturers like TileHaus and Designsource who prioritize sustainability in both material and production.

Matte Over Gloss

Glossy finishes are taking a back seat to matte surfaces in 2025. Matte tiles offer a subtle, sophisticated look that doesn’t scream for attention but adds elegance in all the right ways.

• Why it’s preferred: Matte tiles hide fingerprints, watermarks, and dust better than glossy ones. They’re practical and stylish, especially in high-use areas where shine isn’t needed.
• Best used in: Kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and anywhere function meets everyday life.

These tile trends are shaping the way New Zealand homes look and feel in 2025. Choose the ones that match your space and style best.

Tile Types To Watch Out For

Choosing the right tile goes beyond just following trends. It’s about finding what works best for your lifestyle, your space, and the look you want to achieve. In 2025, several tile types are gaining popularity in New Zealand—not just for their appearance, but also for their practicality. Here’s a closer look at three tile types you should keep on your radar.

Porcelain Vs. Ceramic – Which Works Where

• Porcelain tiles are known for their strength, low water absorption, and resistance to wear. They’re made from refined clay and fired at higher temperatures, making them denser and more durable than ceramic tiles. These are ideal for areas that see heavy foot traffic, moisture, or outdoor exposure—like bathrooms, kitchens, and patios.
• Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are slightly more porous and lighter. They work best in indoor, low-traffic areas like bedroom floors, backsplashes, or decorative wall spaces. They’re also easier to cut, which can be a plus during installation or custom tile work.
• Key takeaway: Use porcelain when durability matters most. Choose ceramic when design flexibility and cost are bigger priorities.

Terracotta Tiles – Authentic, Rustic, Indoor/Outdoor Use

Terracotta tiles bring a timeless, earthy charm to any space. Made from natural clay and typically left unglazed, these tiles have a warm, reddish-brown hue that works beautifully with wood, stone, and natural fabrics. They fit well in rustic, bohemian, or Mediterranean-inspired interiors.

In New Zealand homes, terracotta tiles are making a comeback thanks to their authentic feel and natural appeal. They’re perfect for sunrooms, outdoor patios, or kitchens where you want a lived-in, grounded atmosphere.

Important tip: Terracotta is porous, so sealing is essential—especially in wet areas. With the right care, it can age beautifully and last for decades.

Zellige Tiles – Hand-Crafted, Irregular Beauty From Morocco

Zellige tiles are traditional Moroccan tiles made from non-refined clay, hand-molded, and kiln-fired. Each piece is unique, with slight variations in shape, texture, and color that give walls or splashbacks a one-of-a-kind character.

What makes zellige tiles stand out in 2025 is their imperfect beauty. While machine-cut tiles offer symmetry, zellige embraces irregularity. The result is a surface that catches light differently from every angle, adding depth and interest to even small spaces.

In New Zealand, these are showing up in boutique bathrooms, statement walls, and kitchen splashbacks. They’re ideal for homeowners who want something artistic, bold, and rooted in global craftsmanship.

Before you choose zellige, Be aware that installation takes skill due to uneven edges. But the final look? Worth it if you want something truly custom and full of personality.

What’s Out: Tile Trends Fading In 2025

Not every trend lasts forever. As design preferences shift in New Zealand homes, some once-popular tile styles are slowly being replaced by more natural, warmer, and functional choices. If you’re planning a renovation or new build in 2025, it’s helpful to know which styles are falling out of favor so you don’t invest in something that might soon feel outdated.

Cool Grey Tones

Grey was the go-to color for years, especially in minimalist and industrial-style homes. But in 2025, homeowners are leaning away from cool greys and moving toward warmer, earthier tones like beige, sand, olive, and terracotta. These colors create a more inviting and relaxed space, better suited to New Zealand’s natural landscapes and laid-back lifestyle.

Why it’s fading:
Grey can make a room feel cold or impersonal, especially when overused. It also struggles to pair with warmer wood tones or natural textures that are becoming more common in modern interior design.

Heavy Gloss Finishes

High-gloss tiles were once prized for their sleek, shiny appearance. But in real-world use, they show every smudge, fingerprint, and splash—making them harder to keep clean, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Why it’s fading:
The trend is shifting toward matte and satin finishes, which are more forgiving, safer underfoot when wet, and better aligned with the organic, lived-in feel many New Zealand homeowners now want.

Overly Patterned Mosaics

Mosaic tiles used to dominate bathroom walls and kitchen backsplashes, often in loud, complex designs. While some pattern is still popular, especially in small doses or vintage styles, the overuse of intricate mosaics is starting to feel cluttered and busy.

Why it’s fading:
Modern design now favors simplicity and harmony. Overly patterned mosaics can compete with other design elements and may overwhelm smaller spaces. Today’s homeowners prefer subtle texture or tone-on-tone patterns instead.

Uniform, Sterile Designs

There was a time when smooth, uniform tiles in solid white or grey were considered modern and clean. But that look is now seen as too clinical, especially in residential spaces where warmth and comfort are key.

Why it’s fading:
The rise of textured, handmade, and natural-look tiles reflects a desire for authenticity and uniqueness. People want their spaces to feel human—not like a hospital or corporate showroom. Tiles with variation, texture, and depth are replacing the sterile aesthetic.

Staying current doesn’t mean following every trend. But avoiding designs that are on their way out can help your space feel fresh and relevant for years to come. Focus on what feels warm, practical, and personal—that’s what 2025 design is all about.

Tips For Choosing The Right Tile For Your Space

Selecting the right tile can make or break your renovation project. It’s not just about looks—it’s also about function, durability, and how the tile fits into your everyday life. Below are key things to consider before making your final choice.

Function First: Indoor Vs Outdoor, Wet Vs Dry

Start by asking: where will the tile go? The environment plays a big role in which type of tile will work best. For indoor areas like kitchens and living rooms, ceramic or porcelain tiles with smooth finishes are popular and practical. For outdoor spaces like patios or pool surrounds, you’ll want slip-resistant, textured tiles that can handle New Zealand’s changing weather.

In wet areas like bathrooms, laundries, or splashbacks, choose non-porous tiles with high water resistance. In dry zones, you have more flexibility with material and texture, but still consider foot traffic and overall wear.

Light And Size Of The Room

Tiles affect how a space feels. In small or dark rooms, lighter tiles can brighten the area and create a sense of openness. Large-format tiles with minimal grout lines can also make the space feel less cluttered. In larger rooms, you have more freedom to play with bold colors, patterns, and shapes, but make sure the style ties in with the rest of the home.

If your room gets lots of natural light, glossy tiles might add reflection and depth. In dimmer areas, matte tiles can offer a warmer, more grounded feel.

Long-Term Durability And Ease Of Cleaning

Tiles are a long-term investment, so choose ones that match your lifestyle. Porcelain is one of the most durable and low-maintenance options—it resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Natural stone tiles look stunning but require more care and sealing.

For high-traffic zones like hallways, kitchens, or open-plan living areas, look for tiles with a high PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating. If you have pets or young children, avoid easily scratched surfaces and opt for darker grout that hides dirt.

Always Order Samples

Before committing to a tile, order a few samples. Photos online or in brochures often look different from how the tile appears under your home’s lighting. Samples help you test the feel, texture, and color accuracy in real time. Place them in the actual room and observe how they look in the morning, midday, and evening.

Touch them, walk on them, and hold them against your paint or cabinetry. You’ll make a more confident decision—and avoid costly regrets later.

Where To Shop For Trendy Tiles In NZ

Choosing the right place to buy your tiles is just as important as picking the tile itself. With more options than ever—both online and in-store—New Zealand homeowners can now access a wide variety of styles, materials, and price points. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most trusted tile suppliers in New Zealand and what you can expect when shopping with them.

Tile Space

Tile Space is one of New Zealand’s longest-running tile suppliers, offering a wide selection of modern, luxury, and designer tiles. They’re known for carrying exclusive collections from Europe and Asia, along with sustainable tile options. Their showrooms in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch provide hands-on help with design and selection, while their website offers full online browsing, inspiration galleries, and product info.

Tile Depot

Tile Depot has over 20 locations across New Zealand and is popular for its competitive prices and broad product range. Whether you’re after natural stone-look tiles, porcelain, mosaics, or bathroom accessories, they have it all. Their online store is easy to navigate, and most tiles are in stock, making it a good choice for quick renovations.

The Tile People

A boutique option for more custom or architectural styles, The Tile People work closely with designers and architects to supply unique tiles for premium projects. They focus on importing high-end tiles and offer full project support. Their showroom experience is more design-led, with curated layouts and product styling to help spark ideas.

Artisan Stone

If you’re leaning toward stone-look or natural finishes, Artisan Stone specializes in large-format porcelain tiles and pavers that replicate marble, travertine, or concrete. They focus on outdoor, bathroom, and kitchen surfaces. While they have showrooms in key cities, they also offer sample ordering online for those planning from home.

Mitre 10 and Bunnings

For budget-conscious or DIY renovators, large home improvement stores like Mitre 10 and Bunnings carry a decent range of basic tiles. While they don’t offer as much design support, they’re great for quick purchases or small jobs where simplicity and availability matter.

Online Vs In-Store Experience

Online shopping offers convenience, fast browsing, and the ability to compare styles from your couch. Many tile retailers in New Zealand now include high-resolution images, virtual room previews, and sample ordering to make online selection easier. But if you’re unsure about finishes or textures, visiting a physical store is still the best way to experience color, grip, and pattern in real life.

TAKE NOTE: Always request tile samples—especially for large or costly projects. Lighting in your space can change how a tile looks, and what works online may look very different in person.

Whether you’re designing a high-end bathroom or redoing a kitchen splashback, shopping from trusted local tile suppliers ensures quality, warranty support, and expert guidance along the way. Want tiles that stay in style for years? Start with a supplier that understands both trends and timeless appeal.

Design Advice From Kiwi Renovators And Experts

When it comes to choosing tiles that actually work in New Zealand homes, the best insights often come from the people doing the work every day—renovators, tilers, and interior stylists who see trends play out in real projects.

• Local Insight Matters: While global trends give us a starting point, New Zealand homes have their own unique style and needs. According to Sam Walters, a Christchurch-based tiler with over 15 years of experience, “Homeowners are choosing earthy tiles with texture and character. They’re going for a look that feels natural and blends in with NZ’s environment, especially in open-plan homes.”
• Practical Choices In Real Projects: Renovators are seeing a shift toward large-format tiles in kitchens and bathrooms. Not only do they look sleek, but they also reduce the number of grout lines, making them easier to clean. Jane Miles, an Auckland renovation consultant, says, “People used to choose small subway tiles for a feature wall. Now, they’re leaning into bigger tiles with subtle textures—they want clean, timeless surfaces that aren’t boring.”
• Retro Revival With A Kiwi Twist: Another trend picking up in 2025 is the return of retro and checkerboard patterns. Instead of going full black and white, Kiwi homeowners are warming it up with beige and olive combinations. It’s a nostalgic look but done in a softer, more modern way.
• Sustainability Comes Into Play: Many designers are noting a push for locally made or recycled materials. Builders say clients often ask, “Where was this tile made?” and “Is it sustainable?” It’s no longer just about how it looks, but also about how it was made and its impact.

What Experts Suggest:

• Get physical tile samples before deciding.
• Look at tiles in natural light—what works in a showroom might feel off at home.
• Mix tile finishes subtly. Glossy wall tiles and matte floors can create contrast without clashing.

Takeaway: Trends are helpful, but the best tile decisions come from local knowledge. Kiwi professionals balance style, climate, and lifestyle in every recommendation they give. Before you buy, talk to someone who’s worked with these materials firsthand—they know what lasts, what fades, and what actually looks good once it’s laid down.

Ready to explore tile options for your home? Check out the latest styles and expert advice at Tiler Christchurch to start your renovation with confidence.

FAQs: Top Tile Trends In New Zealand For 2025

Conclusion

Following tile trends can be exciting, especially when you’re updating your home and want it to feel fresh and current. The latest styles often introduce new textures, materials, and colors that can add personality and value to your space. But before committing to any trend, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons. On the plus side, embracing popular designs can make your home feel modern and visually appealing. On the downside, trends can fade quickly, and what looks stylish now might feel outdated in a few years. That’s why it’s smart to focus on what fits your lifestyle and personal taste rather than following every trend. If a design element truly speaks to you and fits the way you live, it will likely feel right long after the trend has passed. Think of trends as helpful suggestions, not strict rules. You’re not designing for the algorithm—you’re designing for yourself. The best spaces reflect the people who live in them, not just what’s trending on Instagram or in showrooms. So whether you go bold with checkerboard tiles or keep things classic with warm neutrals, make sure your choices feel like you—not just what’s popular today.