With summer just around the corner, and the winter weather, now is the time to think about upgrading your backyard with a new deck or replacing your current deck. The deck is not just somewhere to sit with a cold drink; it should be an extension of your home. The place for BBQs, gathering with friends and family and relaxing on the weekend and those long Canterbury evenings.
Here at Canterbury Timber & Hardware we often get asked “What’s the best timber for decking around Canterbury and Selwyn?” The short answer is it always depends on your budget, what look you’re going for, and how much maintenance you want to do. But two timbers stand out for the classic kiwi decks, Kwila and Premium H3 Pine, so let’s break it down.
Kwila – Built to Last
Kwila has become one of the most popular decking timbers in New Zealand. It is a tropical hardwood with a deep reddish-brown colour that will ages gracefully over time.
Why we love Kwila:
- Tough as nails – naturally durable, resists rot and no issues with heavy foot traffic.
- Looks amazing – rich colour that darkens with age, giving a premium finish.
- Low fuss – once properly sealed, it will last for years with minimal maintenance.
- Great for busy spaces – perfect for entertaining areas, family decks, and even homes with pets.
At Canterbury Timber & Hardware, we stock 140x19mm Kwila decking and can get the smaller 90x19mm on request. We also have all the fixings and advice you will need to build it yourself, ow we can recommend someone to do it all for you. Kwila has become the popular choice for customers across Rolleston, Christchurch, and the wider Selwyn district who want a deck that makes a statement and stands the test of time.
H3 Treated Pine – Affordable and Reliable
If you are looking for something a bit easier on the wallet, but still want quality, premium grade H3.2 treated pine is a solid choice. Treated to handle New Zealand’s tough outdoor conditions, makes it a dependable and versatile decking choice for those watching their budget.
Why choose Pine:
- Budget-friendly – great value, especially for bigger decks.
- Easy to work with – lighter to handle, perfect for DIY projects.
- Customisable – paint, stain, or oil it to suit your style.
- Kiwi classic – one of the most common decking timbers used across NZ.
90x19mm, 90x32mm and 140x32mm premium pine decking timber is always in stock at Canterbury Timber & Hardware. Whether you are building at home or working on an investment property, pine is a practical choice that won’t blow the budget.
Other Options (By Request)
While Kwila and Pine are our most popular decking timbers, we are happy to order in other standout options if you’re after something unique or eco-friendly:
- Garapa – a light golden South American hardwood that is stable and smooth, giving a clean modern finish.
- Purpleheart – bold and distinctive, it starts out purple and weathers to a stunning silver-grey over time.
- Bamboo – the sustainable choice. Engineered bamboo is strong, durable, and has a sleek contemporary look that’s perfect if you’re after an eco-friendly choice.
All of these are available to order, just chat with our team about pricing and lead times.
Choosing the Right Decking Timber
Here are a few things to think about before deciding:
- How much traffic will your deck get?
- Do you want something low-maintenance or don’t mind regular oiling?
- Are you after a natural look or a painted/stained finish?
- What’s your budget?
Canterbury’s climate can be tough, with frosty winters and dry summers, so it is important you use the right timber and get the right advice before you begin.
Ready to Build Your Deck?
Whether you’re sprucing up the bach, building a new home, upgrading your investment property, or just want a fresh outdoor space for summer, Canterbury Timber & Hardware has the decking timber and local know-how to get it done right. Rolleston based but proudly supply decking timber across Christchurch, Selwyn, and wider Canterbury. Come visit our store, give us a call, or send us a message and we’ll help you choose the right timber and get your deck sorted with confidence. Don’t have a trailer? No worries, we offer delivery across Rolleston, Selwyn and Christchurch.