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buying guide whiteboards nz
February 11, 2026 Ian Walker

Whiteboard & Display Board Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Board for Your Space

Next article Home Office Setup: A Practical Guide for NZ Homes

Whiteboards and display boards are simple products — but choosing the right one isn’t always straightforward. Size, surface type, mounting options, and how the board will be used all make a difference.

This guide explains how to choose the right whiteboard or display board for offices, schools, and home workspaces in New Zealand, so you get something that works well and lasts.

uses for whiteboards nz

1. Start with how the board will be used

Before choosing a board, think about its main purpose.

Ask yourself:

  • Is it for meetings, planning, or teaching?
  • Will people write on it daily, or only occasionally?
  • Is it for one person or a group?
  • Will it be permanent or moved around?

Boards used frequently benefit from higher-quality surfaces and sturdier mounting.

whiteboards vs display boards nz

2. Whiteboards vs display boards

Whiteboards

Designed for:

  • Writing and erasing
  • Brainstorming
  • Teaching and presentations

They’re ideal where content changes regularly.

Display boards

Designed for:

  • Pinning notices, posters, and information
  • Long-term displays
  • Shared communication areas

They’re commonly used in offices, schools, staff rooms, and reception areas.

different types of whiteboards nz

3. Whiteboard surface types explained

Melamine

  • Most affordable option
  • Suitable for light or occasional use
  • Can stain or ghost over time

Porcelain / enamel steel

  • Hard, durable surface
  • Excellent for frequent use
  • Resists staining and scratching
  • Often magnetic

Best choice for offices and classrooms with daily use.

Glass whiteboards

  • Modern, clean appearance
  • Easy to clean
  • More expensive
  • Requires strong wall mounting

Glass boards suit meeting rooms and design-focused spaces.

magnetic vs non-magnetic whiteboards in nz

4. Magnetic or non-magnetic?

Magnetic boards add flexibility.

Magnetic boards

  • Hold notes, printouts, and diagrams
  • Reduce the need for pins or tape
  • Common in planning and teaching spaces

Non-magnetic boards

  • Lower cost
  • Fine if writing is the only requirement

For most offices, magnetic boards are worth it.

choosing the whiteboard size cm nz

5. Choosing the right size

Board size affects usability more than people expect.

Consider:

  • Wall space available
  • Viewing distance
  • Number of users

As a guide:

  • Small spaces or home offices → compact boards
  • Meeting rooms → medium to large boards
  • Classrooms or training rooms → large boards for visibility

When in doubt, choose the largest size that comfortably fits the wall.

mobile vs wall mounted whiteboards nz

6. Wall-mounted vs mobile boards

How the board is installed affects flexibility.

Wall-mounted boards

  • Clean, permanent solution
  • Save floor space
  • Best for fixed locations

Mobile whiteboards and display boards

  • Easy to move between rooms
  • Often double-sided
  • Ideal for shared or flexible spaces
display board options nz

7. Display board surface options

Display boards come in several surface types.

Common options include:

  • Fabric (pin boards) - Can show wear sooner but premium look new.
  • Felt - Not good for heavy items but good if using lots of pins
  • Cork - can crumble over time if cheap. Great all-rounder

Think about:

  • Pin density
  • How often content changes
  • Colour contrast with notices

Darker colours often reduce visual clutter in busy spaces.

whiteboard installation nz

8. Installation and safety

Large boards need secure installation.

Check:

  • Wall type (plasterboard, concrete, timber)
  • Weight of the board
  • Fixings included

Glass boards and large porcelain boards should always be installed according to manufacturer instructions.

whiteboard mistakes

9. Common mistakes to avoid

  • Choosing melamine for heavy daily use
  • Buying a board that’s too small
  • Ignoring mounting requirements
  • Forgetting about glare from lighting
  • Choosing style over durability

Most disappointment comes from under-specifying the board. A good whiteboard or display board should:

  • Suit how often it’s used
  • Be large enough to be practical
  • Match the space it’s going into

If the board will be used daily, invest in a better surface — it pays off over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best whiteboard surface for office use?

Porcelain (enamel steel) whiteboards are the best choice for regular office use. They resist staining and handle frequent writing and erasing.

Are glass whiteboards better than standard whiteboards?

Glass whiteboards look great and clean easily, but they’re more expensive and require solid wall mounting. They suit meeting rooms and modern offices rather than high-traffic classrooms.

Should I choose a magnetic whiteboard?

For most offices, yes. Magnetic boards allow you to display notes and diagrams alongside written content, making them more flexible.

What size whiteboard should I buy?

Choose the largest board that comfortably fits your wall and viewing distance. Larger boards are easier to use in meetings and shared spaces.

Are mobile whiteboards worth it?

Mobile whiteboards are ideal for shared or flexible spaces. They allow boards to move between rooms and are often double-sided.