When it comes to painting in Aotearoa, it’s not just about picking the perfect colour. The sheen of your paint can make just as much of an impact on the overall vibe and practicality of your space. Do you want a matte finish that quietly says “understated elegance,” or a high-gloss sheen that shouts “check me out”? Let’s explore the sheen spectrum—matte, low sheen, and gloss—and figure out when (and where) each one makes sense in Kiwi homes.

What is Sheen, Anyway?

Put simply, sheen is how reflective the paint is. Think of it like different personalities for your walls—some finishes are subtle introverts, while others are bold extroverts.

• Matte: Soft, velvety finish with no shine.
• Low Sheen: Slight reflectiveness (often called satin or eggshell).
• Gloss: High shine and full-on drama.

Let’s dig into why each one might suit your place in Aotearoa—whether it’s a sleek Auckland apartment, a classic Wellington villa, or a sunny bach in the Coromandel.

Matte: The Quiet Achiever

Matte finishes are a favourite for older homes around NZ because they help hide imperfections in surfaces. If your walls have some “character” (like hairline cracks or slightly rough plaster), matte does a solid job of disguising them.

Best Uses for Matte Paint:

• Ceilings: Helps reduce glare and keeps things looking neat.
• Bedrooms & Lounges: Creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
• Feature Walls: Adds depth without hogging the spotlight.

Pros:

• Conceals bumps and scrapes like a boss.
• Colours look richer and more intense.

Cons:

• Not the easiest to clean if scuffs or spills happen.

Tip: For a sleek, contemporary style, matte finishes are unbeatable. Just be sure to keep a small paint pot around for touch-ups, especially if you’ve got kids or pets.

Suggested Products:

• Resene SpaceCote Flat: Great for interior walls, with a washable matte finish.
• Dulux Wash & Wear Flat: A tough, low-reflective paint designed for busy households.

Low Sheen: The Jack of All Trades

Low sheen paints are a Kiwi staple, bridging the gap between matte and gloss. They’ve got just enough sheen to make cleaning a breeze but aren’t so shiny that every little wall flaw stands out.

Best Uses for Low Sheen Paint:

• Hallways & Living Areas: Withstand everyday wear and tear.
• Kitchens & Bathrooms: More moisture-resistant and scrub-friendly.
• Exterior Weatherboards: Ideal for battling the harsh NZ sun and changing weather.

Pros:

• Easy to wipe clean.
• Suits both modern and classic décors.

Cons:

• Doesn’t hide imperfections as well as matte.

Tip: If you’re on the fence, low sheen is a super-safe choice. It’s that perfect middle ground for most New Zealand homes.

Suggested Products:

• Resene Zylone Sheen: A popular low-sheen interior paint with great durability.
• Dulux Wash & Wear Low Sheen: Offers a balance of easy cleaning and smooth finish.

Gloss: The Showstopper

Gloss finishes are the life of the party—shiny, attention-grabbing, and seriously durable. If you’re looking to make a statement in your home, gloss is your friend.

Best Uses for Gloss Paint:

• Doors & Trims: Adds that crisp, clean finish—especially in older villas or bungalows.
• Kitchens & Bathrooms: Fantastic for cupboards, cabinetry, or splashbacks where durability is key.
• Highlighting Architectural Details: Think window frames, skirting boards, or decorative mouldings.

Pros:

• Super durable and easy to wipe down.
• Brings a sense of luxury and brightness to a room.

Cons:

• Shows up every flaw—prep work is absolutely essential.
• Can feel a bit overwhelming if used everywhere.

Tip: Pair gloss surfaces with matte or low sheen for contrast and balance. Think glossy trims plus matte walls.

Suggested Products:

• Resene Enamacryl: A waterborne enamel with a high-gloss finish, perfect for trims and doors.
• Dulux Aquanamel Gloss: A water-based gloss that’s tough enough for high-traffic surfaces.

How to Choose the Right Sheen

Feeling stuck on which sheen to go for? Here’s a quick Kiwi-friendly guide:

1. High-traffic areas (like hallways)? Low sheen or gloss will cope well with the wear and tear.
2. Older or uneven walls? Go for a matte finish that’s forgiving on imperfections.
3. Need a bit of drama? Gloss for the win—it’s a real showstopper.
4. Still unsure? Opt for low sheen; it’s the Goldilocks option for most Kiwi lifestyles.

Final Thoughts

Picking the right paint sheen goes beyond mere aesthetics—it’s about making sure your walls look great and stand up to real-life conditions, from unpredictable Wellington winds to the fierce sun in Northland. Whether you’re painting a heritage villa in Christchurch or giving your Wanaka holiday home a modern twist, the right finish can make all the difference.

So, grab your paint tin, pick your sheen, and get cracking! Whether you’re after relaxed, understated vibes or a bold, glossy glow-up, there’s a perfect finish for your project. And with trusted Kiwi brands like Resene and Dulux at your fingertips, you’re all set for a top-notch paint job, mate.