From balcony furniture tucked under cover to garden furniture left out in the elements, the best material depends on its exposure, the weather conditions and how much upkeep you're willing to put in.

After all, it needs to hold its own against the harsh New Zealand sun, sudden showers and everything family life can throw - or spill - at it.

Let's see what our outdoor settings are made of:

• Aluminium - Lightweight yet tough, a powder-coated finish resists rust while keeping its sleek, contemporary good looks.
• Wood - Go with the grain for warmth, strength and character, with regular care all part of its natural charm.
• Resin Wicker - Get wrapped up in woven texture (not upkeep) thanks to synthetic rattan that resists fading, moisture and spills. Wicker is typically made from UV-stabilised polyethylene (PE) rather than natural rattan, making it resistant to moisture and mildew.
• Fabric - Outdoor-rated upholstery helps colours stay vibrant and cushions stay fresh through sunshine, showers and humidity.
• Acacia Timber - Attractive grain and rich natural colour. Hard, durable hardwood. Good resistance to weather when regularly oiled and maintained.
• Eucalyptus timber - Strong and dense hardwood. Natural resistance to rot and insects.
• Concrete Fibre - Extremely durable and can handle New Zealand's sun, rain, and wind well. Heavy, so it won't blow around during strong winds.

Colour is the finishing touch that can take an outdoor living space from thrown together to thoughtfully styled, so choose a shade that complements your home, sets the right mood and wears well over time.

Whether your taste leans towards modern outdoor furniture or classic charm, here's where our popular palettes show their true colours:

• White & Neutrals - Brighten your space with lighter shades that absorb less heat and make sun fading less noticeable.
• Grey & Charcoal - Play it cool with mid-greys that help disguise dirt, dust and everyday marks.
• Black - Make a bold statement with a UV-resistant finish that helps preserve its deep, dramatic colour.
• Green - Lean into the landscape with earthy tones that blend beautifully with plants, pollen and minor marks.
• Blue - Channel coastal calm with relaxed blue hues designed to weather plenty of sunny days.

Got an outdoor furniture set in your sights? Get the lay of the land with these practical pointers:

• Functionality - Picture how you'll use the space, whether that's dining, lounging, entertaining or a little bit of everything.
• Size - Measure twice and furnish once, leaving enough room to comfortably move around your balcony, patio, garden or poolside area.
• Comfort - Look for supportive seats, sink-in cushions and proportions that invite everyone to stay a while.
• Durability - Choose materials made to handle outdoor life, from harsh UV rays and rain to muddy paws.
• Care - Be realistic about upkeep, including regular cleaning, protective covers and shelter for when the weather turns.