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New Zealand’s first IKEA store will open its doors at the Sylvia Park shopping centre in Auckland on Thursday, December 4.
Today’s announcement on-site at IKEA Sylvia Park was marked by the installation of the iconic, IKEA yellow wordmark on the side of the 34,000m² store.
The milestone ends much speculation and anticipation for confirmation of the opening date, which will be in time for Christmas shoppers across New Zealand, who can order online if they can’t get there in person.
IKEA is also inviting New Zealanders to join its family, with the launch of IKEA Family, its free loyalty program.
With more than 213 million members worldwide, members will receive exclusive benefits, early access to news, inspiring content, and personalised experiences once IKEA is open.
With 7,500 products available, the store features an expansive Showroom filled with fully styled room sets from bedrooms and kitchens to outdoor spaces.
The Market Hall area is stocked with curated home accessories, and a self-serve warehouse is where customers can pick up larger flatpack furniture to take home that day, or via home delivery at a more convenient time.
The 426-seat, Swedish Restaurant will serve the famous IKEA meatballs, salmon dishes, plant-based favourites, and even some meals exclusive to New Zealand.
Before the store exit, the Bistro and Swedish Food Market will offer customers cinnamon scrolls and hotdogs, as well as frozen meatballs to enjoy at home.
Tolga Öncu, Ingka retail manager at IKEA Retail, says: “The interest and anticipation for IKEA in New Zealand can be felt all the way to Sweden and we are very much humbled by it.
“Welcoming a new country to the IKEA family always comes with a special emotion and we cannot be more excited to meet the many Kiwis soon and bring our well-designed and affordable home furnishings close to them.”
Mirja Viinanen, chief executive and chief sustainability officer, IKEA Australia and New Zealand, adds: “I’m proud we can finally deliver the good news to New Zealanders that exactly three months from today, on December 4, IKEA will open its doors, both physically and online.
“We appreciate the excitement shown by Kiwis and are grateful for the country’s patience as we have been busy laying the foundations of our first home in Aotearoa.
“It’s been some time since we first announced our intentions to enter New Zealand in 2019.
“However, from the start it has been our aim to enter in the best way possible and to be a good neighbour.
“Not just for opening, but for the long term. We wouldn’t be where we are today, without the support and collaboration from our neighbours and widening, ‘IKEA Family’.
“From the Māori blessing as we started construction in June 2023, to ongoing collaboration with many members of the local iwi, Kiwi Property, community groups and local businesses, we’ve laid strong foundations that will support us in achieving our forever vision – to create a better everyday life for the many New Zealanders.”
