IKEA hasn’t even opened its doors yet, but the Swedish brand is already tapping into real Kiwi culture. Before it's first Aotearoa store launches on 4 December, it’s putting on three free secret housewarming parties across Tāmaki Makaurau from 28 to 30 November, including a massive RnB and hip hop garage party which you can sign up here.

The pop-up events, created with UK party innovators Lab54, will appear in three mystery Auckland locations. Each party celebrates a classic part of the Kiwi home, from backyard hangs to beach mornings to the most iconic space of all, the garage.

Patricia Routledge, Head of Communications for IKEA in Australia and New Zealand, says the idea is all about celebrating Aotearoa life. “These parties celebrate some of the unique elements of New Zealand’s life at home, including carpeted garages and beloved backyard BBQs,” she says. “They’re about connection, music, kai, and the things that make a house feel like a home.”

Saturday 29 November is shaping up to be the big one, with The Garage Party turning a secret spot into the “most iconic garage in Auckland.” Expect nostalgic throwbacks to family BBQs and garage jams, plus a live line-up of local and international RnB and Hip Hop acts bringing proper community vibes.

Friday kicks things off with The House Party, a bassline and UKG-fuelled villa takeover in the CBD. Sunday closes the weekend with The Beach Party, bringing indie and surf rock to a sunny seaside location.

Lab54 who brought successful IKEA pop-ups to London, says bringing that to NZ was a must. “We’ve long wanted to bring this spirit to Aotearoa and celebrate with Kiwis, call it our take on no.8 wire,” says Head of Content Jessica Suo.

The parties are free for anyone over 18 who signs up to IKEA Family, and the secret locations will be revealed via text. Registering to IKEA family is free too by the way!

This might be the most Kiwi housewarming ever.