Summer’s coming. That means barbecues, long evenings outside, family and friends around, and making the most of our great Kiwi lifestyle. But take a good look at your outdoor entertaining area. Is the deck looking tired? Is the fence leaning? Is the patio more suited to winter storage than summer entertaining? And have you been promising yourself you’ll sort out that outdoor lighting for the past two years?

Now’s the time to do something about it. You don’t need to spend a fortune. A few smart improvements, with the help of the right tradies, can make a huge difference.

Sort out that deck

Decks take a hammering from New Zealand weather. Rain, wind, sun and damp winters can leave timber looking pretty ordinary. Sometimes a good clean and a fresh coat of stain will do the trick. Other times, loose boards, rotten timber or dodgy handrails need fixing.

Get a good builder or decking specialist to check things over before spending money on the cosmetics. Thinking about a new deck? Get some quotes now. Don’t wait until December, when everyone else has the same idea and builders are flat out.

A good deck is an investment in how you enjoy your home. Get it right and you’ll enjoy it for years.

Create some shelter

We all know the Kiwi summer can deliver four seasons in a day. One minute you’re enjoying the sunshine, the next you’re rushing to get the cushions inside. A pergola, covered patio or retractable awning can make your outdoor area much more useful. Outdoor blinds can also provide protection from wind and improve privacy.

You don’t need the biggest outdoor living area in the neighbourhood. You just need one that works for you.

Get the lighting right

There’s nothing better than sitting outside on a warm evening with the barbecue going and good company around. Well-placed lighting around the deck, steps, garden and dining area can make your outdoor space more inviting and safer after dark.

Solar lights can work well for garden paths, while permanent outdoor lighting is worth considering for areas you use regularly. For fixed electrical work, get a qualified electrician. It’s not worth cutting corners when it comes to safety.

Make the barbecue area work for you

The barbecue is often the centre of a Kiwi summer get-together. But have you got enough bench space? Somewhere to prepare food? Or does the cook end up juggling everything while everyone else enjoys themselves? You might only need a new bench and some storage. Or perhaps you’re ready for a full outdoor kitchen.

Talk to the right tradies before committing to the spend. Get the layout sorted, understand the costs and make sure you’re building something you’ll actually use.

Don’t forget the garden

You can spend thousands on a deck, but if the surrounding garden is overgrown or the lawn turns into a swamp every time it rains, the job isn’t finished. A landscaper can help tidy things up, improve drainage, add garden beds or create more privacy.

Even a few new plants, some fresh mulch and a tidy lawn can lift the whole property. My advice? Fix the practical problems first, then worry about making everything look flash.

Get the right tradie, not just the cheapest one

We all like a good deal. But choosing a tradie purely because they have the lowest quote can be a costly mistake.

Before committing, check their reviews, get a written quote and understand exactly what’s included. Ask about timing, materials and potential extra costs. Make sure they have the right qualifications and licences for the work.

Pay attention to communication, too. A good tradie keeps you informed, respects your property and takes pride in the finished job.

That’s what you want.

The bottom line

Your outdoor entertaining area doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be somewhere you enjoy spending time.

Make a list, work out your budget and get the right people involved.

Get started early. The closer we get to Christmas, the busier many tradies become.

Post your jobs here and get ready for a fantastic summer outdoors.