How Much Does Herringbone Flooring Cost in NZ?
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Herringbone flooring has become one of the most sought-after flooring styles in New Zealand homes. Its timeless pattern, European feel, and ability to elevate any space make it a premium choice for both renovations and new builds. But one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: how much does herringbone flooring cost in NZ?
The answer depends on a few key factors including materials, installation, and design complexity. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
Herringbone Flooring Material Costs in NZ
When it comes to the raw flooring itself, the cost of herringbone flooring is often surprisingly close to standard plank flooring, especially when you're using high-quality oak.
For example, at Marchand, the oak supply used for both herringbone and plank flooring comes from the exact same trees. That means you're getting the same premium-grade timber regardless of the format you choose.
The price difference between planks and herringbone boards typically comes down to packaging and box sizes rather than the material itself. In most cases, this difference is minimal, so if you're expecting a huge jump in product cost alone, you may be surprised.
Another key advantage is consistency. Marchand only supplies 20mm thickness in both herringbone and plank formats, ensuring seamless transitions between different areas of your home. This is especially important if you’re mixing styles, for example, herringbone in living spaces and planks in hallways and stairs.
Typical Material Price Range
Engineered oak herringbone: $190 per m²
Premium European oak: $190+ per m²
(Prices vary depending on finish, grade, and supplier.)
Why Installation Costs Are Higher
While the material cost difference is small, installation is where herringbone flooring becomes more expensive.
Laying a herringbone pattern is a highly skilled and time-intensive process. Unlike straight plank flooring, which can be installed in long, continuous rows, herringbone requires:
Precise setting out from a central axis
Careful alignment of each individual board
Additional cutting and adjustments
Constant checking to maintain the pattern
Because of this complexity, installation can take up to twice as long as standard plank flooring.
Labour Cost Comparison
Plank flooring installation: $100 per m²
Herringbone installation: $120–$180+ per m²
In some cases, when installers are particularly busy or in high demand, they may charge close to double the rate compared to plank installation. This reflects both the extra time involved and the higher level of craftsmanship required.
What Impacts the Total Cost?
Several factors influence the final price of your herringbone flooring project:
1. Room Size and Layout
Smaller or irregularly shaped rooms often increase labour costs because they require more cutting and detailed work.
2. Subfloor Preparation
If your subfloor isn’t level or needs repairs, this will add to the overall cost—especially important for herringbone, where precision is critical.
3. Pattern Complexity
While classic herringbone is the most common, variations like double herringbone or custom borders can increase installation time further.
4. Installer Availability
As mentioned, when skilled installers are in high demand, pricing can increase significantly. Herringbone specialists are fewer than standard flooring installers, which can drive costs up.
Is Herringbone Flooring Worth the Extra Cost?
For many homeowners, the answer is a resounding yes.
Herringbone flooring offers:
A high-end, architectural look
Increased property appeal and perceived value
A timeless design that won’t go out of style
Because the material cost is similar to plank flooring, the upgrade is really about investing in labour and craftsmanship.
If you’re already planning to install premium oak flooring, choosing herringbone can be a relatively small step up in total project cost—but a major step up in visual impact.
Cost Summary: Herringbone vs Plank Flooring
Here’s a quick comparison to put things into perspective:
Flooring Type | Material Cost | Installation Cost | Total Cost |
Plank Oak Flooring | $190/m² | $100/m² | $290/m² |
Herringbone Oak Flooring | $190/m² | $120–$180+/m² | $310–$370+/m² |
Final Thoughts
If you're considering herringbone for your home, it’s a good idea to get quotes early—especially during busy building periods, and work with experienced installers who understand the precision required to get the pattern perfect. Please contact us at info@marchandonline.co.nz
