The top five decking woods suitable for New Zealand:
1. Radiata Pine (Treated)
- Pros: Widely available, affordable, easy to work with, and sustainably grown in New Zealand.
- Cons: Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing) to prevent rot and insect damage.
2. Macrocarpa
- Pros: Naturally resistant to rot and insects, attractive grain and color, and locally grown.
- Cons: Softer wood, can be prone to scratching and denting, and requires regular maintenance.
3. Kwila (Merbau)
- Pros: Very durable, resistant to rot and insects, beautiful reddish-brown color.
- Cons: Can bleed tannins initially, needs regular maintenance, and concerns about sustainable sourcing.
4. Vitex (Vitex cofassus)
- Pros: Hard and durable, naturally resistant to rot and insects, attractive appearance.
- Cons: More expensive, can be hard to source, and requires maintenance to maintain its color.
5. Thermally Modified Wood
- Pros: Enhanced durability and stability, eco-friendly, less prone to warping and shrinking, can use local woods.
- Cons: Can be expensive, limited availability, and still requires some maintenance.
These options offer a good balance of durability, aesthetics, and sustainability, making them well-suited for decking projects in New Zealand.
