Ikea gets ready to open NZ stores in Chch, Auckland, Wellington

International homeware giant Ikea will open three physical and digital customer "meeting points" across the country as the retailer prepares to open one of its first NZ stores in Christchurch.

Last year Ikea announced it would open its first New Zealand-based stores after gaining franchise rights.

Exact locations and timings have not been confirmed yet.

But they include a full-sized Ikea store in the greater Auckland area, a planning studio in Wellington and a second smaller-format store in Christchurch.

Jan Gardberg, country retail manager for Ikea New Zealand, said the company was looking forward to giving access to people across the entire nation.

"While planning has been under way, we have also been getting to know more about life at home in New Zealand."

Ikea will also launch its full e-commerce offer during this period.