How Much to Install Wallpaper in New Zealand? (2025 Guide)
Wallpaper Type Costs
| Wallpaper Type | Cost per Roll (NZD) | Typical Coverage per Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Quality | $30 – $70 | 4.5–5 sqm |
| Premium/Designer | $100 – $300+ | 4.5–5 sqm |
A standard roll of wallpaper (approximately 10m x 0.5m) will cover approximately 4.5 to 5 square metres, depending on wall height and the design.
Professional Wallpaper Installation Labour Costs
Professional installers of wallpaper usually charge it on an hourly rate. The following is what you may have to pay:
| Service | Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $70 – $100 per hour |
| Feature wall (one wall) | $200 – $300 total |
| Small room (entire room) | $500 – $1,200 total |
| Large room or complex areas | $1,200 – $2,000+ total |
Installers tend to have a minimum fee (e.g., $240+ GST), so the little jobs would not be worthwhile to do on an hourly basis.
Other Costs You Might Need to Pay
| Task | Approximate Additional Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Wallpaper removal | $70 – $100 per hour |
| Wall preparation (sanding/patching) | $100 – $400 total |
| Adhesive and primer supplies | $100 – $200 total |
Proper preparation of walls is the key to achieving the best finish and longevity of your wallpaper, so don’t cut this cost out of your bottom line.
DIY vs Professional Installation
If you’re the DIY type, here’s a ballpark figure of what it will cost you:
DIY total cost for a small room: around $800–$1,000 (wallpaper and materials).
Professional installation for a small room: typically $1,200–$1,500.
The do-it-yourself approach is less expensive, but the professional route will likely provide a higher-quality finish, less stress, and quicker turnaround.
Save on Wallpaper Installation Tips
Do feature walls: Wallpaper one wall instead of whole rooms to save enormous amounts.
Do prep work yourself: Prep simple walls like sanding and cleaning save total costs.
Buy smart: Buy materials in bulk or discounted clearance sales to save a great amount.
Get quotes: It is always best to acquire quotes from multiple experts to receive comparative pricing.
Summary of Overall Costs of Wallpapering in New Zealand
| Project Type | DIY Cost (NZD) | Professional Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| Feature Wall | $250 – $500 | $400 – $600 |
| Small Room | $800 – $1,000 | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Medium/Large Room | $1,200+ | $1,800 – $2,500+ |
Knowing these prices enables you to make informed choices, budget your project appropriately, and achieve that fashionable home transformation you want.