Help & information
FAQS
what is direct design
Direct Design helps New Zealand clients access high quality interior and exterior building products directly from leading Chinese factories and design centres. We specialise in guided sourcing tours and hands on support so you can achieve better design outcomes and significant savings without compromising quality
who is direct design for
Our services are suited to homeowners building or renovating, as well as builders and designers supporting clients who want more choice, higher quality and better value than is typically available in New Zealand.
do i need to be building a full house
No. Some clients are building entire homes while others are renovating kitchens, bathrooms or specific areas. Our service is flexible and tailored to your project size and scope.
what products can i source
We support sourcing across the whole home including kitchens, bathrooms, cabinetry, tiles, flooring, windows and doors, wardrobes, lighting, furniture, hardware and outdoor living products.
why source from china
China is the global centre for high end manufacturing and interior products. Many premium products sold in New Zealand are already made there. The difference is that we help you access them directly without retail mark ups, giving you far more choice and value.
how do sourcing tours work
We organise guided trips to China where you visit curated factories and showrooms with our support. We help with product selection, pricing discussions, specifications and ordering so the process is clear and controlled.
do i have to travel to china
While travelling provides the best experience and confidence, some clients choose to work with us remotely after an initial consultation. We can discuss what approach best suits your situation,but because we love travel, and suspect you do too, we'd say - why not travel with us?
how do you ensure quality
We work with suppliers we have personally visited and assessed. Products are specified clearly and checked against agreed requirements. Our focus is on consistency, materials, manufacturing capability and suitability for New Zealand homes.
will products meet new zealand standards
Many products are manufactured to international standards and can be specified to meet New Zealand requirements. We help you understand what certifications and documentation are needed and guide you accordingly.
how much can i save
Savings vary by product and project, but as a general guide clients can expect to save at least 50 percent, with savings of up to 80 percent on some product ranges, compared to New Zealand retail pricing. Savings come from buying direct from factories, removing multiple layers of mark ups and having access to a far wider range of suppliers. We focus on transparency so you understand exactly where the savings are achieved.
is pricing transparent
Yes. You see real factory pricing and can compare options clearly. There are no hidden retail margins. Because you deal direct with the manufacturer and supplier, there is no middle man.
what does it cost to ship a container from china to new zealand
Shipping costs from China to New Zealand vary depending on the departure port, arrival port, time of year, carrier availability and global freight conditions. As a general guide, recent ocean freight estimates converted to New Zealand dollars are approximately:
• 20 foot general purpose containerAround NZD $1,400 to $4,100 for ocean freight only
• 40 foot high cube containerAround NZD $2,100 to $5,000+ for ocean freight only
These figures are indicative only. Actual costs can fluctuate due to:
• Seasonal demand including peak periods and Chinese New Year• Congested shipping routes and busy ports• Fuel price changes and carrier capacity shifts
These costs are ocean freight only. Additional charges usually apply in New Zealand, including port and terminal handling fees, customs clearance, MPI requirements, GST, duty if applicable, inland transport and insurance.
do you handle shipping and importing
We are not a freight company, but we assist with export preparation, packing standards and coordination so your goods are ready for shipping to New Zealand. We work alongside logistics partners where required, and connect you with trusted customs brokers both here in New Zealand and China.
what happens after the tour
After the tour we assist with follow up, supplier communication and next steps so decisions are not rushed. Support continues through ordering and preparation for shipping.
do you work with builders and designers
Yes. We regularly collaborate with New Zealand builders and designers to support their clients and ensure offshore sourced products integrate smoothly into local builds. We also are taking builders on tours who are sourcing products for their own builds and projects.
where are you based
The Beatsons are based in Ahipara in the Far North of the North Island, and the Fitzpatrick's are based in Nelson at the top of the South Island, New Zealand. We work with clients nationwide, as well as the pacific and Australia.