Bold claim: IKEA’s New Zealand app just went live, and it brings real-time prices across a vast range, signaling a big shift for shoppers in Australia’s near neighbor. The Kiwi version of IKEA’s app is now live, listing prices for thousands of items available to purchase from tomorrow. A massive 34,000m2 store in Auckland’s Sylvia Park is set to welcome customers on Thursday, offering roughly 7,500 products—from flat-pack furniture bundles to everyday household essentials.
Opening day is expected to bring significant traffic and crowds to the busy Sylvia Park area, with some locals anticipating potential disruption and “mayhem” around the shopping hub. Prior to launch, IKEA’s loyalty program had already rolled out nationwide, granting members exclusive discounts and early updates ahead of the store opening.
In August, IKEA teased a first look at popular products that would feature in the New Zealand location. That sampling fed into the Life at Home Report New Zealand, a study designed to uncover what Kiwis want on the shelves.
Today’s app update includes price listings for many of those highlighted items, as well as several top sellers from across the Tasman Sea. Here are several price comparisons for notable items:
BILLY bookcase — NZ$149
The best-selling Billy Bookcase (80x28x202 cm) is listed at NZ$149 in the New Zealand app, versus AU$129 (approximately NZ$147) in Australia.
The New Zealand operation is overseen by the Ingka Group, which operates roughly 90% of IKEA stores.
IKEA’s global reach is underscored by the fact that since 1979, over 140 million units of the BILLY bookcase have been sold.
IKEA PS LÖMSK swivel armchair — NZ$219
In Australia, this armchair sells for AU$179 (about NZ$205). In New Zealand, the same item is priced at NZ$219, making it a touch more expensive here.
Malm bed frame — NZ$399
Across the ditch, the Queen-size Malm bed frame runs AU$349, which converts to NZ$399 here. An upgraded option with two built-in storage boxes is priced at NZ$499.
New York Times reviewer notes that this frame has a reputation for its versatility, color options, and neutral aesthetic, ranking it among affordable platform bed frames and acknowledging its popularity.
Kallax shelving unit — NZ$99
Australians pay AU$89 for the Kallax (77x147 cm), roughly NZ$101 after currency conversion. Available in multiple sizes beyond the 77x147 cm option.
Mackapär shoe rack — NZ$39.99
In Australia, the Mackapär shoe rack sits at AU$29 (about NZ$33.20), which is slightly cheaper than New Zealand’s price.
KLIPPAN two-seat sofa — NZ$399
The Klippan two-seater is offered in six colours in Australia and three in New Zealand, priced at NZ$399 here, versus Australia’s AU$329 (roughly NZ$376).
This price landscape comes as competition intensifies in the region. The Warehouse Group’s chief executive previously warned that global players like IKEA will push rivals to innovate and accelerate. Meanwhile, Warehouse Stationery ran a Meta ad campaign in November urging shoppers to “shop local,” poking fun at IKEA’s meatballs and restaurant experience. The broader message was that while meatballs may be iconic, a local shopping focus remains strong.
Industry observers expect new retailers entering the market to boost overall sector activity, drive foot traffic to Sylvia Park, and broaden consumer interest. Do these prices make IKEA a better value than local alternatives, or do they highlight the ongoing price tensions between New Zealand and neighboring markets? Share your take in the comments.
