pergola with a new deck

Outdoor Entertainment Area Designers and Builders

Zones Landscaping Consultants utilise our proven 5-step method to deliver fantastic results and a positive experience for homeowners throughout New Zealand.

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Outdoor Entertainment Area Specialists

Being out in the fresh air and sunshine are known stress reducers. Of course you can always go for a walk or visit a park whenever circumstances permit, but imagine having a private outdoor living space for unwinding in your own backyard. Building an outdoor entertainment area can dramatically increase your living area too!

A combination of blinds, screens, and even a pergola can create the perfect covered outdoor living space that transitions seamlessly from a kitchen or lounge. Or if it’s a modern outdoor entertaining area you’re after, bespoke lighting and a chic verandah may be more to your taste. 

One thing’s for sure, with cosy elements such as firepits and built-in seating through to practical features like an automatic louvre roof, outdoor living ideas run the gamut when it comes to style and budget, so there’s something for everyone. But working with a team of professional outdoor entertaining area builders and designers is the best way to create an atmosphere that complements your property and lifestyle. 

Before After
Learn more
Project description
Pool and Backyard Landscaping
Project duation
6 weeks (Stage 1); 4 months (Stage 2)
Challenges
High water table and reclaimed soil (turned sludge) made excavation in winter extremely challenging.
Location
Auckland Central
New Zealand
Cost estimate
Interesting aspects
Cedar slatted timber screen with custom aluminium rails to install. Porcelain pavers for anti-slip and anti-stain.
Time
July 2023
Actual cost
$40k (Stage 1); $112k (Stage Two), excavation and pool installation excepted.
All Zones Landscaping franchises are independently owned and operated.

Costs are accurate at the time of publication. Plan ahead to reduce the impact of industry changes or disruptions. For more information see here.
Before After
Learn more
Project description
Full outdoor landscape renovation
Project duation
Challenges
Difficult access to the site and council consent delays.
Location
Auckland Central
New Zealand
Cost estimate
81000
Interesting aspects
The outdoor kitchen, concrete fireplace, and louvre roofing.
Time
October 2021
Actual cost
95000
All Zones Landscaping franchises are independently owned and operated.

Costs are accurate at the time of publication. Plan ahead to reduce the impact of industry changes or disruptions. For more information see here.
Before After
Learn more
Project description
Pool and landscaping
Project duation
3 months
Challenges
An inadequate retaining wall, flooding, and restricted site access.
Location
Auckland Central
New Zealand
Cost estimate
$200,000
Interesting aspects
Chic mood lighting.
Time
November 2022
Actual cost
$250,000
All Zones Landscaping franchises are independently owned and operated.

Costs are accurate at the time of publication. Plan ahead to reduce the impact of industry changes or disruptions. For more information see here.

Client case studies

How does Zones help?

Outdoor renovations are an exciting project but there can be lots of details to manage. At Zones, we’ve completed thousands of successful projects so we know what to prepare for. Our proven 5-step method addresses problems before they start by prioritising thorough planning and ensuring our communication is direct. Each homeowner is connected with a designated Landscaping Consultant who works alongside them throughout the entire project, right from the initial consultation. 

“Communication has been excellent from start to finish and the entire project has been managed extremely well. The project has come in on time and budget and the result is stunning.” — Rebekah La Franchie, Zones client

Aside from sourcing premium materials and coordinating an excellent team to execute your project, it’s our mission to provide an experience that’s second to none by remaining transparent in our communication, pricing, and planning processes. The Zones approach enables our Landscaping Consultants to streamline the process, keeping everything organised and on schedule, so your outdoor living area gets delivered on time and within budget.  

Are you ready to transform your outdoor entertainment area?

Let the experts at Zones help transform your landscape! To discuss ideas for your outdoor living area, get in touch and arrange a free consultation with a local Landscaping Consultant.

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From Concept to Completion

Our proven 5-step process was designed to help ensure outdoor renovation and landscaping projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Step 1

Briefing Meeting

A landscaping specialist will meet with you to discuss your ideas and offer suggestions and inspiration to get your project started.

Step 2

Concept design and estimation

Next up, your specialist will look at the feasibility of your ideas and, consequently, provide you with a project estimate.

Step 3

Detailed design, planning and costing

A detailed design will allow your specialist to create a time-frame, a fixed-quote and advise you of any required council consents.

Step 4

Build stage

From there, it's all go! Your landscaping specialist will manage their skilled team throughout your design installation.

Step 5

Your finished outdoor space

With professional project management, completing your project on-time and on-budget is very achievable.

Outdoor Entertainment Area Renovation Services

Our expert team can manage all aspects of your outdoor entertainment area project from planning to build and everything in between

Firepits & Fireplaces
Hardscaping
Landscape Design
Outdoor Kitchens
Design & Planning
BBQ
Lighting & Power
Outdoor Rooms
Outdoor Sound
Patios
Pergoals and Decks
Privacy Solutions
Project Management
Softscaping
Swimming Pools & Spas

Outdoor Entertainment Area Styles

No matter your style, Zones can create a solution for you - browse through this carousel for inspiration on your outdoor entertainment renovation project.

Family Fun Zone

Looking to create a family-friendly backyard? We've got you covered. From pools and minimal maintence gardens to sports courts and spacious lawns, your local Landscaping Consultant will work closely with you to turn your backyard into a beloved hub for family fun.

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BBQ & Grill Haven

A well-planned and fully equipped grill area is a must for BBQ lovers. This style focuses on creating the perfect outdoor cooking and dining haven to enjoy all year round.

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Poolside Paradise

Ready to have your own poolside paradise? At Zones, we are experts in transforming your space into a breathtaking oasis. Whether you envision hosting pool parties or simply desire a private retreat, your dedicated Landscaping Consultant will work with you to bring your ideas to life.

View Projects

Create an Outdoor Entertainment Area that you will be proud of

Outdoor Entertainment Area Projects


Curious about the process? Check out these real-life stories of recent Zones projects, including images of outdoor entertainment areas, details, and the costs to bring them to life. 

View All Outdoor Entertainment Renovations

Why Choose Zones for Your Outdoor Entertainment Area?

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You’ll always feel in control

Our 5-step process was designed to keep homeowners informed. Whether it’s through conversations with your Landscaping Consultant or by checking into our intuitive customer portal, you’ll always be able to track your project’s progress.

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You’re supported by professionals

Your Landscaping Consultant will guide you through the process and liaise with the team on your behalf so you can relax and enjoy the process, knowing that you're supported by industry experts.

Outdoor Entertainment Renovations

An outdoor entertainment area to suit your budget

At Zones, we understand that everyone has different priorities. In our experience, homeowners are led by one of two priorities; budget or design. But there’s no wrong way to plan your outdoor living area.

If you want to build an outdoor entertainment area on a budget, we can create concept designs to fit within your financial comfort zone and we can rework according to your feedback. This approach helps to define areas you may want to splurge, and where you’re happy to compromise.

No matter which route you choose, rest assured you’ll receive the same robust customer support and superior craftsmanship that Zones is known for.

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Partnerships

Quality products and supply partnerships a standard practice

At Zones, our business model empowers our Landscaping Consultants to build teams they trust and believe in. This includes general contractors, specialty craftspeople such as stonemasons, and landscape architects, as well as suppliers.

These partnerships provide exclusive access to premium materials and the workmanship of experts, but your Landscaping Consultant will always remain your single point of contact.  

Whether your project is led by budget or design, our team will find the right products and materials to bring your vision to life.

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We've completed over 1,000 landscaping projects

Customer Testimonials

Customer Testimonials

We couldn't be happier

Communication has been excellent from start to finish and the entire project has been managed extremely well. The project has come in on time and budget and the result is stunning

Sara Bell, Zones Client

We couldn't be happier

Our project worked out very well. We've received exactly what we wanted, and are pleased with the result. There were no cost overruns, other than those where we changed to scope of work. Freda was very good with communication, and was frequently on site, ensuring the work kept on track.

Rob Owens, Zones Client

We couldn't be happier

We couldn't be more happier with our new landscaping and outdoor living areas. Kate and the team gave us a great designed and then brought that to life and finished everything to a very high standard. We are very happy and would highly recommend.

Cameron King, Zones Client

Outdoor Entertainment Area FAQs

What are some popular landscaping ideas for outdoor entertainment areas?

Incorporating spa pools into an outdoor area is a common request by Kiwi homeowners as it’s a luxurious item but can often be an eyesore without the proper execution. Whether the spa pool is the focal point of the landscape or simply a design element is up to you.  

Functional yet stylish outdoor BBQ area ideas are another entertaining space staple. They’re not as comprehensive as an outdoor kitchen but still serve as an incredible social hub for parties and gatherings. Simple ideas include a pergola for shelter, weatherproof storage, and seating. But some designs even see the BBQ built into a brick housing or complemented by a wood-burning pizza oven!

What can I expect from a landscape designer?

Landscapers, designers, architects, consultants — you’ve probably heard all these terms before and, while they all work towards the same goal, they each have different jobs, so we don’t blame you for being confused!

A qualified landscape designer’s purpose is to translate your backyard ideas into a feasible design that suits your property, budget, and lifestyle. They’ll consider things like what native plants will thrive, where the sun hits your yard, the topography of the site, and the proposed purpose of the space. They can offer garden ideas, patio ideas, and even recommend specific fixtures and fittings. Their main goal is to bring your vision to life in a way that will last for years to come while adhering to your requests and guidelines.

How long does it take to build an outdoor entertainment area?

Timelines vary and there are a myriad of factors that can impact an estimated schedule. We’ve completed projects in anywhere from four weeks to four months and beyond. Part of our 5-step process includes creating a detailed timeline so our Landscaping Consultants can reach milestones in a timely manner which helps them stay on schedule. So, while each project is unique, each one is planned in advance so you’ll know what’s going on and have a projected date of completion for your outdoor entertainment area.

What factors do I need to consider when planning an outdoor entertainment area in New Zealand?

Aside from council consent, which your Landscaping Consultant can help you with, weather and the existing landscape are the two biggest factors. Consider your local climate. If there’s excessive rain or even sunshine, you may want to think about creating a partially covered outdoor space that gives you the option to escape the elements. 

Also, take the time to survey your property. Are there any obvious challenges such as steep inclines or an abundance of overgrown bush? If so, your Landscaping Consultant may need to coordinate excavation specialists, or you may opt to go back to the drawing board and instead work with your landscape instead of against it. But these are all things that will be addressed early on in the planning process, so don’t worry.

What are the steps involved in building an outdoor entertainment area?

Outdoor spaces come in all shapes and sizes, but we apply the same proven process to each landscape renovation. 

  1. First you’ll arrange an initial consultation with a local Landscaping Consultant during which you’ll discuss your goals, budget, and preferred timeline. 
  2. Then, they’ll take this information and provide you with a concept design which illustrates your outdoor area ideas.
  3.  Once the plans have been refined, an estimate can be drawn up for you to review. 
  4. Construction begins after you’ve approved the proposed plans and quote. 
  5. Finally, your Landscaping Consultant will hand over any essential documentation for your project. Then, all that’s left to do is enjoy your new outdoor living area!

How much does it cost to build an outdoor entertainment area in New Zealand?

In the past year alone, we’ve created outdoor living areas for under $20,000* and over $200,000*. But, as you can imagine, the scope of these projects vary greatly. This may not be the answer you’re looking for but there’s really no one-size-fits-all price tag. However, the costing stage of our 5-step process includes an estimate for each project that homeowners have the opportunity to review and adjust before agreeing to construction. This way, there are no surprises and we can work within your budget.

Outdoor Living Inspiration & Advice

Think your yard is too small for an outdoor entertaining area? Think again! Browse our collection of articles to explore the possibilities, get inspired, and find professional advice regarding outdoor renovations of all shapes, sizes, and styles.  

View all outdoor entertainment area inspiration

Where are we?

We have landscaping specialists nationwide, find one near you.

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Judd and the guys from zones turned the area of my back yard I used to hate the most into my favourite summer spot. They made the process so easy. I knew exactly what I was getting and how much it would cost. I would highly recommend this team.

⁠— 

Lee Challenger

, Refresh Customer

Kate was excellent at organising this whole project and her landscapers were also excellent in the quality of their work as well as initiative in dealing with a very difficult site. The project was completed in good time inspite of the various covid restriction in place at the time. They also left the surroundings very tidy. I now have an attractive garden which is easy to maintain.

Landscaping Consultant: Kate Ryan

⁠— 

Heather Lees

, Refresh Customer

Dealing with Zones and Kate has been a pleasure and effortless experience. Responsive, professional, reliable, prompt and accommodating. We are very happy with the final product, finished just in time for the outdoors season. Thank you!

Landscaping Consultant: Kate Ryan

⁠— 

Anna and Tony

, Refresh Customer