Design the Perfect NZ Guy’s Man Cave: Art Prints That Set the Mood

The classic man cave is a fun place to spend time, and guys around the world seem to enjoy designing one that perfectly fits their unique personalities. That’s certainly true in New Zealand. Both single guys and those in relationships often take the time to peruse and select wall art that they feel will fit perfectly with the aesthetic they’re trying to create.

Let’s explore some of the photos, signs, posters, and other pieces of art you might use to decorate your man cave if you live in New Zealand and want to create a cozy den to call your own.

Be on the Lookout for Sports Zone Essentials

First, it’s important to note that no two man caves will look exactly the same, because no two men are into precisely the same things. That being said, there are several man-cave universalities you’ll notice, regardless of the niches the occupant gravitates toward.

For instance, sports paraphernalia is almost always in order. Since rugby is practically a religion in NZ, classic sports photography depicting some of your favorite players might be appropriate.

Maybe you’d like to find a distinctive black-and-white shot of Jonah Lomu motoring past defenders. Perhaps some still shots from New Zealand defeating France in the 2011 World Cup are more your speed.

Whichever you prefer, you can frame and hang them above your couch in your living room. Maybe you’ll get in the habit of touching each one for luck before a match starts. You can also add a couple of vintage posters of crowds at Eden Park for a more nostalgic energy. Below your art, you can feature the latest flat-screen TV that delivers crystal-clear shots of your team in action.

If you want something a little more audacious, metallic prints are another option. You can easily find some of local heroes like Richie McCaw. Sports-related metallic art is usually pretty affordable, and you can get it at many NZ print shops.

This type of setup emphasizes your love of spirited athletic competition. You can also purchase the art we’ve described without breaking the bank.

With these pieces in place, it’s easy to imagine fun nights with your buddies cheering on your favorite teams. Some banter and brews are all that’s needed to create cherished memories.

Gaming Den Vibes Are Another Option

If you love video games, then artwork that labels you a console warrior might be the way to go. Look online for retro gaming posters if you’re trying to create a battleground mood.

Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter posters might appeal, though light-up signs featuring glowing 8-bit colors from your childhood may be even more eye-catching. You can hang them gallery-style around the TV. What better way to immerse you and your guests in the bygone feel of yesteryear?

If you want to get more modern with video-game-inspired décor, maybe you can track down some metallic Zelda prints or Fortnite-inspired graphics. That way, you’re featuring a little old-school charm while still tipping your cap to current gaming obsessions.

These are the pieces you need to have in place before engaging in late-night raids. If you add LED backlighting for that extra glow (an easy DIY from your local hardware store), that should complete the look you’re going for.

Maybe You’re Trying to Create a Look That Encourages Relaxation

For many blokes, laid-back leisure art is a signal that you value your downtime. To get that feeling, purchase vintage beer signs. A Kiwi classic like Speight’s is always welcome if you’re trying to create pub-like warmth. You can also track down some neon-style prints that mimic the glow of a Las Vegas casino.

If you enjoy browsing Casinos.com’s top 20 online casino picks for NZ players, bold graphic prints of jackpot symbols might be just the ticket. They should put you in the mood if you’re the type of person who’s not afraid to place a wager.

The Surf Bar Look Is a Contemporary Classic

If you want your man cave to resemble a surf bar, you’re in good company. Retro beer ads are practically a must if you’d like to go in that direction.

The distinctive Lion Red or DB Export logos signal you’re all about relaxation and kicking back. You can often find them in weathered tin at a reasonable price.  

You’ll probably want to have a bar fridge stocked with Steinlagers or any other brew you favor. Next up, purchase some leather recliners to create an authentic bloke heaven.

To complete the look, consider mixing in some fishing or surf motifs. That should give the place some outdoorsy Kiwi flair. Maybe you’ll pick out some paua shell abstracts or feature some snapper-hauling pictures on the walls. All of this helps showcase your local pride.

Pulling It All Together

Even if you don’t feel like you have exceptional interior decorating skills, setting up your space the way you’d like it doesn’t have to feel like rocket surgery. Layering zones is a common technique that should help give you the effect you’re looking for.

The sports images might go higher on feature walls, while the gaming posters and signs can be clustered lower down. Relaxation pieces like beer signs can be interspersed throughout. You can always mingle larger and smaller pieces as well.

Before you start collecting the pieces for your man cave, make sure to look at your budget carefully. Fortunately, most of what we’ve suggested won’t cost all that much and isn’t very difficult to find. You can likely get set up and start hosting the gaming and sports-watching sessions you’ve been dreaming about in no time.