A double bed headboard is so much more than a plank of wood or a bit of fabric behind your pillows. It's the visual anchor of your bedroom. This one piece of furniture can completely transform your room's character, turning a simple place to sleep into your own personal retreat.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect double bed headboards in NZ for 2026.
Why a Headboard Is Your Bedroom's Centrepiece
Picture a bed without a headboard. It can look a bit lost, almost like it’s floating in the middle of the room with no real sense of place. A headboard instantly grounds the bed, making it the undeniable focal point. It draws your eye, carves out a dedicated sleep zone, and sets the stylistic tone for the entire space.
But it's not all about looks. A headboard has some seriously practical jobs, too. It gives you some much-needed back support for those late-night reading sessions, stops your pillows from disappearing down the gap, and even acts as a welcome barrier between you and a cold wall on a chilly winter's night.
The True Impact of a Headboard
A great headboard doesn't just complete a bed; it completes a room. It introduces texture, a pop of colour, and a dose of personality, serving as the perfect backdrop for your duvet and decorative cushions. This is especially true here in New Zealand, where more and more of us are focusing on creating homes that feel like comfortable, stylish sanctuaries.
The numbers back this up. In New Zealand's thriving furniture market, headboard sales have climbed right alongside the industry's impressive growth, which is on track to hit a market size of $1.5 billion in 2026. This shows just how much we Kiwis value our bedroom upgrades, and headboards are clearly playing a starring role.
More Than Just a Bed Accessory
Think of a headboard as a design statement that pulls the whole room together. The material, shape, and height you choose can dramatically shift the entire vibe of the space.
- Wall Protection: It's your wall's best friend, shielding it from the scuffs, marks, and oils that transfer from hair and pillows over time.
- Enhanced Comfort: Leaning back against a soft, upholstered headboard is worlds away from propping yourself up against a hard, cold wall.
- Style Definition: A rustic wooden headboard can create a warm, natural feel, while a sleek metal one might give off a more modern, industrial look.
A headboard is the equivalent of a great piece of art for your bed. It frames the space, adds a layer of sophistication, and immediately elevates the look and feel of your bedroom, turning it from just a place to sleep into a designed retreat.
Beyond its practical uses, a headboard is your chance to define your bedroom's aesthetic. To really make the space shine, think about adding complementary elements like some stunning art for bedrooms.
This guide will demystify everything from NZ sizing to installation, helping you find that perfect match. And if you're looking to furnish the whole room, you might find our overview of essential bedroom furniture in NZ helpful, too.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your NZ Double Bed
Getting the size right is the single most important step to headboard happiness. Think of it like buying a frame for a piece of art; if the proportions are off, the whole picture just looks wrong. It’s exactly the same when you’re sorting through the huge range of double bed headboards NZ retailers have to offer.
Your starting point is always the bed itself. Here in New Zealand, a standard double mattress is 137cm wide by 187cm long. This size is a household staple right across the country, so it’s no surprise that it’s a familiar sight in master bedrooms, guest rooms, and kids' rooms.
Because this size is so common, there’s a great local industry of Kiwi artisans crafting headboards specifically for our national bed standards, ensuring you get a perfect match. You can dive deeper into how NZ double bed dimensions can shape your entire bedroom layout.
To help you visualise things, here’s a quick comparison of the numbers you’ll be working with.
NZ Double Bed vs Headboard Dimensions at a Glance
| Measurement | Standard NZ Double Mattress | Recommended Headboard Size |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Width | 137cm | 137cm - 140cm (Flush Fit) |
| Standard Length | 187cm | Not applicable |
| Extended Width | Not applicable | 145cm - 165cm+ (Statement Piece) |
As you can see, a headboard that’s just a fraction wider than the mattress creates a clean, intentional look.
How to Measure for a Flawless Fit
Before you fall in love with a particular design, grab a tape measure. A few simple measurements will save you a world of frustration later, making sure your new headboard fits perfectly—not just with your bed, but within your room.
First, measure the width of your mattress and bed base from edge to edge. For a classic, tidy look, the headboard should be at least the same width as your bed base, which is usually around 137cm to 140cm.
Next, think about the style you're going for. Do you want a headboard that sits flush with the mattress, or one that extends out on each side for a bit of extra presence? An oversized or "winged" headboard can create a luxurious, hotel-like feel, but you'll need to measure your wall space to be sure it doesn't overwhelm the room.
Don't forget to account for the small but mighty details. Measure the height of your skirting boards and check the location of any power points. These can easily get in the way of both floor-standing and wall-mounted headboards.
Accounting for Width and Height
When it comes to width, you really just have to choose between two main approaches. A flush-fit headboard aligns neatly with the edges of your mattress for a streamlined look, while an extended headboard—anywhere from 5cm to 15cm wider on each side—makes a much bolder statement.
Height is just as crucial for getting the visual balance right.
- Low Profile: A shorter headboard works wonders in rooms with low ceilings or if you're aiming for a minimalist, uncluttered vibe.
- Standard Height: This is the most popular choice. It gives you plenty of support for sitting up with a book but doesn't dominate the wall.
- Tall and Grand: A tall headboard is a real showstopper. It draws the eye upward, making the ceiling feel higher and adding a sense of drama and luxury to the room.
Ensuring Compatibility with Your Bed Base
The final piece of the sizing puzzle is making sure your new headboard can actually connect to your bed. Most headboards in New Zealand are designed to be compatible with standard divan or ensemble bases, which come with pre-drilled holes for mounting bolts.
But not all bases are created equal. Modern adjustable beds, for example, often need special brackets to attach a headboard securely. If you have a slat bed frame, you might be better off with a floor-standing or wall-mounted headboard instead of one that attaches directly to the base.
Always check the product description or ask the retailer about base compatibility before you buy. This simple check guarantees your chosen headboard will work seamlessly with what you’ve already got, letting you shop with complete confidence.
Choosing a Style That Tells Your Story
Think of your headboard as more than just a piece of furniture; it's the centrepiece of your bedroom. It’s the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing at night, setting the entire mood for the space. When you're looking for double bed headboards NZ homeowners love, it's less about just plugging a gap behind the bed and more about deciding what story you want your room to tell.
Are you after that breezy, laid-back feel of a "Coastal Sanctuary"? Or maybe you're dreaming of a "Luxe Hotel Vibe," turning your bedroom into a five-star escape. Your choice of headboard is the quickest way to bring that vision to life.
The Great Debate: Timber vs Fabric vs Metal
Here in New Zealand, headboard choices usually come down to three key materials: timber, fabric, and metal. Each one has its own personality and practical points, and getting to know them is the secret to choosing something you'll be happy with for years to come.
A beautiful timber headboard feels right at home in a Kiwi bedroom, connecting your space with our love for the outdoors. It's tough, timeless, and a breeze to clean—a quick wipe is all it takes. From rich, sustainably sourced native Rimu to light and airy pine, wood gives you a huge range of styles.
Upholstered or fabric headboards, on the other hand, are all about softness, comfort, and a touch of luxury. They're perfect for leaning against with a good book or a morning coffee. You can find them in everything from durable, family-friendly polyester blends to plush, opulent velvets, with endless colour and texture options.
Comparing Your Material Options
To make the decision a little easier, let's break down the pros, cons, and practicalities for each material, especially considering our local climate and lifestyles.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timber | Incredibly durable and long-lasting. Simple to clean. Works with everything from rustic to modern décor. | Can be quite heavy. Not the softest surface to lean on. Can show scratches over time. | Creating a natural, timeless, or minimalist vibe. A fantastic choice for anyone with allergies. |
| Fabric | Super comfortable with a soft, luxurious feel. Huge variety of colours, textures, and patterns. Helps absorb sound. | Can be a dust magnet and needs regular vacuuming. More prone to stains. Not ideal for very damp rooms. | Bedrooms going for a cosy, plush, or hotel-luxe feel. |
| Metal | Sleek, durable, and often easy on the wallet. Creates an open, airy look. Easy to wipe down. | Can feel cold to the touch. Might not give the best support for sitting up in bed. Limited texture options. | Modern, industrial, or vintage-inspired bedrooms. |
The right choice really depends on your lifestyle. A busy family home might be better suited to the wipe-and-go nature of timber, while someone creating a quiet, sumptuous retreat might fall for a deep-buttoned velvet headboard. If you're also thinking about how different bed sizes affect the room's overall design, you might find it useful to compare double and queen bed options to get a better picture.
Design Narratives and 2026 Trends
Let's move past materials and look at some popular design themes that can help you find the perfect headboard.
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The Coastal Sanctuary: This is all about capturing that light, breezy, bach-on-the-beach feeling. Look for headboards in pale woods like pine or ash, or natural woven materials like rattan and cane. These styles create a calm, relaxing space that’s perfect for unwinding.
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The Luxe Hotel Vibe: If you want to feel like you're checking into a fancy hotel every night, a tall, upholstered headboard is the way to go. Think deep-buttoned or channel-tufted designs in rich velvets or linens. Deep jewel tones or sophisticated neutrals will instantly add that touch of glamour.
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The Minimalist Retreat: For a clean, uncluttered style, a simple timber headboard with sharp, straight lines or a basic fabric panel design is a perfect fit. Here, the focus is on simplicity and quality materials, creating a room that feels serene and grounded.
Looking ahead to 2026, we're seeing two big trends taking shape for double bed headboards in NZ. The first is a real shift towards sustainably sourced and reclaimed materials, as more of us become eco-conscious. The second is the rise of the multifunctional headboard—clever designs with built-in shelves, USB ports, or hidden storage to make the most of our space, especially in smaller Kiwi homes.
Ultimately, choosing a headboard is a personal decision. It's a chance to put your stamp on your most private space. Whether you love the organic warmth of wood, the soft embrace of fabric, or the clean lines of metal, the right headboard won't just finish your bed—it will start telling your story.
Your Practical Guide to Headboard Installation
So, you’ve found the perfect headboard. Awesome! Now for the final, satisfying step: getting it installed. This part can feel a bit daunting, but honestly, with a clear plan, it’s a straightforward job you can easily knock out over a weekend.
We’ll walk you through the three main types of headboards you'll find here in New Zealand, so you can feel confident you’re getting it done right. Forget the confusing jargon—think of this as a friendly guide to that instant room upgrade.
To get started, it’s worth thinking about how different headboard styles create a totally different feel in a room, from breezy coastal relaxation to minimalist calm.
As you can see, materials and textures really set the tone. Wicker can instantly give you that coastal vibe, while a sleek wood grain is the key to a more minimalist look. It's all about defining your room's character.
What You'll Need Before You Start
Getting organised first makes everything so much easier. Before you dive in, it’s a good idea to gather a few basic tools. You won't need a professional workshop, just a few essentials you probably already have stashed around the house.
Here’s a simple checklist to get you sorted:
- Tape Measure: For that one last check of heights and distances.
- Spirit Level: This is a must-have. There’s nothing worse than a crooked headboard!
- Pencil: For marking up drilling points or where the studs are on the wall.
- Drill (for wall-mounted): A standard power drill will do the trick just fine.
- Stud Finder (for wall-mounted): A small but vital tool for making sure a wall installation is secure.
- Spanner or Wrench: Needed to tighten the bolts on a strut-mounted headboard.
Having these ready to go means you won’t have to stop what you're doing to go on a hunt for a tool mid-job.
Attaching a Strut-Mounted Headboard
This is the most common type of headboard you'll see from double bed headboards nz retailers. It has two wooden or metal legs (called struts) that bolt directly onto the back of your bed base. The good news is most NZ divan bases come with pre-drilled holes ready for this.
- Locate the Holes: First, find the bolt holes on the back of your bed base. Often, they’re covered by a sticker or a small fabric cap you can just pierce through.
- Attach the Struts: Loosely attach the struts to the back of the headboard itself using the screws that came with it. Don't tighten them all the way just yet.
- Align and Bolt: Now, line up the slots on the struts with the holes on your bed base. Pop the headboard bolts through the struts and into the base.
- Adjust and Tighten: With the headboard roughly in place, you can now slide it up or down to get the perfect height. Once you’re happy with it, tighten all the bolts securely with your spanner.
Pro Tip: If your bed base doesn't have pre-drilled holes, don't panic. You can either carefully drill them yourself or, for a simpler fix, just opt for a floor-standing or wall-mounted headboard instead.
Installing a Floor-Standing Headboard
A floor-standing headboard is a fantastic, sturdy option. As the name suggests, it’s a tall headboard that stands directly on the floor behind your bed, getting sandwiched between the bed base and the wall. They often come with bolts to secure them to the base for extra stability.
Installation is incredibly simple—it’s often a one-person job. You just position the headboard against the wall and push your bed base firmly up against it. If it has fixing bolts, you can attach them to your base just like the strut-mounted models. This gives you a really solid, premium look without much fuss.
Mounting a Headboard to the Wall
Wall-mounted headboards look so sharp, giving you a clean, "floating" effect. They’re a brilliant solution for rooms where space is tight or if you have an adjustable bed base. The best way to think about it is like hanging a heavy mirror—the absolute key is to find the wall studs to get a secure anchor.
- Find the Studs: Use your stud finder to locate the vertical timber supports inside your plasterboard wall. Mark their positions lightly with your pencil.
- Position and Mark: Decide on the perfect height for your headboard. Use a spirit level to make sure it's perfectly straight, then mark the drill holes on the wall so they line up with the studs.
- Drill and Attach: Drill pilot holes into the spots you marked on the studs. Then, screw the mounting brackets or plates (this is often a French cleat system) securely into the wall.
- Hang the Headboard: All that’s left is to lift the headboard and slot it down onto the wall-mounted brackets.
This method gives you total control over height and positioning. If you'd like a more detailed look at different installation services and options, you can find professional installation guidance right here on our website.
How to Buy Your Headboard in New Zealand
Once you've got a style in mind, it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty of actually buying your headboard. Here in New Zealand, there are a few practical things to consider that will make the whole process a lot smoother.
This part of the guide is all about the practical side of things. We'll walk through setting a realistic budget, understanding the different payment options available to Kiwis, and figuring out the logistics like delivery and returns. Let's make sure you get from "add to cart" to "perfectly installed" without any headaches.
Setting Your Budget
The first step is always figuring out what you're comfortable spending. Headboard prices in New Zealand can vary wildly depending on the materials, the complexity of the design, and whether it’s made locally or brought in from overseas.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect for a double bed headboard:
- Affordable Options ($150 - $400): This price bracket will get you a simple, functional piece. Think basic fabric or timber designs that mount with struts. They’re a great, stylish choice for a guest room or if you're working with a tight budget.
- Mid-Range Choices ($400 - $800): This is the sweet spot for most people. You’ll find a huge range of well-made upholstered, timber, and metal headboards with more thoughtful details like button-tufting or premium fabrics.
- Premium & Custom Pieces ($800+): Looking for something special? This is where you'll find those impressive floor-standing models, luxurious materials like velvet, or headboards crafted from beautiful native timbers. You can also get a piece custom-made to your exact specs.
Having a clear budget from the get-go is a game-changer. It helps you filter out the noise and focus on finding the best quality and style you can get for your money, saving you from getting lost in a sea of options.
Smart Payment Solutions in NZ
Found the perfect headboard but the price tag is a bit daunting? Don't worry. Many Kiwi retailers offer fantastic interest-free finance options to help spread the cost.
Keep an eye out for popular choices like:
- Afterpay or Laybuy: These are perfect for breaking the payment down into smaller, interest-free chunks over a few weeks.
- Long-Term Finance (e.g., Q Card, Gem Visa): For a bigger investment, many furniture stores offer 6 to 36 months interest-free finance. This lets you take the headboard home straight away and pay it off over a much longer period.
These payment plans can make it much easier to invest in a higher-quality piece that you'll love for years, without needing all the cash upfront.
Getting a WINZ Quote
For many New Zealanders, getting a bit of help from Work and Income (WINZ) is a crucial part of setting up a comfortable home. The good news is that most reputable bed and furniture stores are registered WINZ suppliers and can provide an official quote.
It's a really straightforward process:
- Choose Your Headboard: Find the double headboard that’s right for your needs.
- Request a Quote: Just ask the retailer’s customer service team for a WINZ quote. They'll draw up an official document with all the required details.
- Submit to WINZ: Take the quote to your case manager for their approval.
Delivery or In-Store Pickup
The last piece of the puzzle is getting your new headboard home. You've usually got two options here: picking it up yourself or getting it delivered.
Picking it up from the store is a simple way to save on delivery fees. Just double-check your car is big enough to handle it! A standard NZ double headboard is about 137cm to 140cm wide, so you'll need a bit of space.
Of course, nationwide delivery is the easiest choice. Most stores will deliver right to your door. For items in stock, it might only take a few business days, while custom orders can take a few weeks. Always check the delivery cost and the estimated timeframe before you confirm your purchase.
Warranties and Return Policies
Finally, a good warranty and a clear return policy give you that all-important peace of mind. Before you buy, always check the warranty period – it can be anywhere from 1 to 10 years, depending on the maker. This covers you if there are any faults with the materials or how it was made.
The return policy is just as important. See how many days you have to send it back if it’s not quite right and find out if there are any restocking fees. A fair and transparent policy is a great sign that a retailer believes in what they sell, like the fantastic selection of quality headboards and bases you'll find from trusted local sellers.
Styling and Caring for Your New Headboard
Right, the headboard's in place and it’s looking sharp. So, what’s next? This is where the real fun starts – turning that simple headboard into the stunning focal point of your bedroom and keeping it that way. It’s all about a bit of creative styling and some simple, smart upkeep.
With a few thoughtful touches, you can take your headboard from just another piece of furniture to a genuine design statement. It's not just about installing it; it's about making it the centrepiece it deserves to be.
Making Your Headboard the Star
Styling is really just about creating a sense of balance and texture. Think of your headboard as the canvas, and the rest of your bedding and decor as the paint.
If you've gone for an upholstered headboard, layering is your best friend. Start with your everyday sleeping pillows propped up against it. Then, pop two big square 'Euro' pillows behind them, and finish it off with a couple of smaller, interesting decorative cushions in the front. This simple trick creates that plush, inviting look you see in magazines.
For a sleek timber or metal headboard, the approach is a little different. You don't want to hide its clean lines; you want to enhance them.
- Symmetry is key: A matching pair of bedside tables with slim, elegant lamps on either side works wonders to frame the headboard perfectly.
- Soften the edges: To contrast the hard material, drape a soft, chunky-knit throw over a corner of the bed. It adds a touch of warmth and breaks up the clean lines.
If you're feeling creative, you could even try some DIY home decor projects to add a personal touch that really complements your headboard's style.
Long-Term Care for Your Investment
Keeping your headboard looking as good as new doesn't take much work at all – just the right approach for the material. A bit of regular, gentle cleaning is all it needs to stop dust from settling in and keep it in pristine condition.
A simple maintenance routine is the best way to protect your investment. Just five minutes every couple of weeks is all it takes to prevent long-term wear and tear, ensuring you’ll love your headboard for years.
Here are a few quick tips for different materials:
- Fabric Headboards: These need a regular vacuum to stop dust getting embedded in the fibres. Grab the upholstery attachment for your vacuum and give the whole surface a gentle once-over every fortnight. If you spill something, blot it immediately with a clean, dry cloth – whatever you do, don't rub!
- Timber Headboards: For a wooden headboard, a quick dust with a soft microfibre cloth each week is usually all you need. To bring back its natural lustre every now and then, use a good-quality furniture polish, making sure to wipe along the grain of the wood.
- Metal Headboards: Metal is probably the easiest of the lot. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth to get rid of dust, then dry it straight away with a clean cloth to avoid any water spots. It's that simple.
Your Double Headboard Questions, Answered
To finish up, let's run through some of the common questions we get from Kiwis looking for the perfect double bed headboard. Getting these details sorted will help you make that final choice with confidence.
Can I Attach Any Double Headboard to My Bed Base?
Not always, but there's almost always a workaround. Most bed bases and headboards here in New Zealand stick to standard sizes, but it’s still crucial to double-check before you hand over your money. The most common type, strut-mounted headboards, need pre-drilled bolt holes on your bed base to attach properly.
What if your base doesn't have them? No sweat. A freestanding floor-standing headboard or a sleek wall-mounted one are fantastic alternatives that bypass the need to connect to the base entirely.
A quick five-minute check can save you a world of hassle. Before buying a strut-mounted headboard, just measure the distance between the bolt holes on your bed base. This ensures it’ll fit perfectly when it arrives.
What Is the Best Headboard Material for Allergy Sufferers?
If you're dealing with allergies, think smooth and non-porous. These materials are a game-changer because they don't give dust mites, pollen, and other allergens a place to hide.
Here are some great options:
- Wood or Timber: Naturally resistant to dust and an absolute breeze to wipe clean.
- Metal: A modern choice that's just as easy to maintain.
- Faux Leather: You get the plush look of upholstery without the fibres that trap allergens.
If you’ve really got your heart set on a fabric headboard, look for one with a tight, low-pile weave and make a habit of giving it a regular vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
How Do I Get a WINZ Quote for My Headboard?
It's a really straightforward process. Many furniture retailers across New Zealand are registered suppliers and can provide you with an official Work and Income quote.
All you need to do is pick out the headboard you want and get in touch with the store's customer service team—whether that’s in-person, online, or over the phone. They’ll draw up a proper quote with all the necessary details for you to submit to WINZ for approval. Easy as that.
Ready to find a headboard that perfectly suits your style? Dive into our huge collection at New Zealand Bed Company and discover the ideal piece for your bedroom today. Check us out online at https://nzbeds.co.nz.