1: Swing low
Nothing sings maxo relaxo like swinging in a hammock. We're happy in a classic canvas net stretched between two trees. Treat yourself to something posher, like this Lujo luxury masterpiece ($2890, lujo.co.nz). This massive hammock strung between Kwila hardwood comes with all the trimmings, including pockets for all your bits and pieces and bluetooth speakers to play your tunes.
2: Now you're talking
It's like the original banana chair, only way more slick and not made of plastic that will snap, or scald your skin as you try and soak up some sun. The Phoenix sun lounger ($1795, poynters.co.nz) can be wheeled around pool-side for maximum holiday vibes.
3: Hanging out
A hanging Swingrest looks magical swaying in the breeze, especially at night, in candlelight. They're romantic and cosy and we want to crawl into this Daniel Pouzet-designed lounger from Domo (domo.co.nz, POA). If you don't have the tree space, the standing lounger is a pretty good plan B, we think.
4: Blissful beans
We're dreaming about this Marine Bean Chair by Coast New Zealand ($549, coastnewzealand.co.nz). This outdoor beanbag offers support but doesn't sacrifice the squishiness that makes the original beanbag so blissful. The waterproof cover comes off for easy cleaning (just in case you spill your punch).
5: Jazz up the outdoors
We love the graphic print on the Flutter cushion range. Our pick to jazz up your outdoor space this summer is the collection of linked designer cushions in four delicious shades - Caribbean, poppy, pistachio and blacktie ($75 each, flutterdesign.co.nz). The durable fabric is stain and water-resistant and can stand up to 500 hours in the sunshine without fading.
Read our previous Five of the Best columns to prepare you for summer:
• Five of the best beach bag essentials
• Auckland: Five of the best spots to watch the sunset
• Five of the best bits for a barbecue
• Five of the best roadtripping essentials