Resene and Dulux are the two names most Kiwi homeowners know, and both make excellent paint. The real question is not “which brand” but “which system for this surface, in this condition, in this location” — and that is where a trade-qualified painter earns their keep.
The honest truth about both brands
Both Resene and Dulux produce premium, long-lasting products that perform well in New Zealand conditions. A quality top-of-range product from either, applied correctly over good preparation, will serve you well.
Where jobs fail is almost never the brand — it is using a cheap budget line from any brand, skimping on coats, or poor preparation.
What actually matters more than the brand
- Choosing the right product tier — premium exterior systems, not builder’s-grade economy lines.
- Matching the paint to the substrate — timber, plaster, fibre-cement and roofing all need different systems.
- The correct primer or sealer for the surface and its condition.
- The right number of coats, applied in the right conditions.
How Steve chooses
Steve is a Kiwi, trade-qualified painter who specifies the system to suit each home — drawing on both Resene and Dulux ranges depending on the surface, exposure and finish you want. You get a recommendation based on what will last, not on habit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is more expensive paint actually worth it?
Yes. Premium paints have better coverage, colour retention and durability. Over the life of the coating, the better product is usually cheaper per year because it lasts longer.
Can you colour-match between brands?
In most cases yes — colours can be matched closely across brands, so you are rarely locked in by an existing colour.
Need a hand with your project?
Happy to tackle some of it yourself? Great — but for anything you’d rather leave to a professional, Steve Lunjevich is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter with 20+ years’ experience. Call or email for honest advice or a free, no-obligation quote.
