At Sunshade, we take pride in delivering exceptional shade solutions, and our recent collaboration at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu in Hastings is no exception. This large-scale project, undertaken in partnership with Stead Construction and their architect, has transformed the new school and kōhanga’s outdoor spaces into vibrant, functional, and visually stunning areas.

A Collaborative Effort

The project was a testament to teamwork and local expertise. The architect designed the outdoor shades to complement the outdoor spaces, while our Hastings-based team, led by licensee Mark Hannan, brought the vision to life.

Every step, from fabrication to installation, was carried out locally, ensuring precision and quality.

This project featured an impressive 83 poles and 26 individual outdoor shade sails. Among these, one standout was a 5-point shade sail, a striking addition that showcases the creativity and flexibility of the products used in this design.

Visual Impact with Extreme32 Rainforest Shade Cloth

The shades are made using Extreme32 shade cloth and the use of the “Rainforest”  colour—a choice not often seen in our projects looks epic. The combination of the green and “Navy Blue” sails provides a strong visual feature. Depending on the angle and perspective, the shades offer a dynamic, multidimensional experience, that transform the outdoor spaces into an inspiring and enjoyable environment for tamariki.

Mark Hannan: A Legacy of Excellence

Local licensee Mark Hannan led this project for Sunshade, marking his largest and most ambitious undertaking in over 20 years in the business.

Mark is no stranger to large-scale installations, having worked on notable projects such as Wairoa College, the Marine Parade Pump Track, Napier Boys Hostel Courtyard, and countless kōhanga, kindergartens, and school playgrounds. His expertise and commitment to excellence have made him a trusted partner for many school and community projects.

A Lasting Community Asset

We are grateful to have been entrusted with this project and are delighted with the outcome. This installation not only enhances the functionality of the outdoor spaces but also provides long-term protection and comfort for the community.

When it comes to school and community projects, Sunshade takes pride in offering solutions that stand the test of time. The shade sails at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu will undoubtedly become a valued community asset, offering both practicality and beauty for years to come.

Feeling inspired?

If you’re inspired by this project and have a vision for your space, we’d love to help bring it to life.

Get in touch with us today!

During summer many of us look forward to enjoying our outdoor spaces – but we also want to be protected from the sun’s intense heat and UV rays when it gets hot – check out our shade inspiration.

Here, we highlight several stunning outdoor shade solutions we have installed that protect and add style and value to our client’s homes.

These installations showcase the dedication to quality and innovation of our local Sunshade experts, possibly inspiring you to create your own ideal shaded retreat.

Auckland – Modern Style

At this modern townhouse in Auckland, a 4×4 metre Z16 shade sail in Charcoal complements the home’s exterior and provides incredible UV protection.

The Z16 shade cloth can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, significantly reducing heat and glare.

Backed by a 10-year warranty, this durable shade option ensures a cool and comfortable outdoor space, ideal for those long summer days. We think it’s a perfect example of how shade can be both effective and stylish.

Northland – Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds at the Bach

At this Northland retreat, our client opted for Ziptrak® blinds with black mesh. The aluminium frame and componentry was powder-coated for contrast in Appliance White.

This combination provides shade, UV protection, and reduces glare while allowing airflow and preserving the stunning ocean view.

These blinds can block up to 99% of UV rays and withstand strong winds, making them ideal for year-round protection. Whether you’re lounging during summer or seeking shelter from winter winds, Ziptrak® outdoor blinds are a versatile choice for any home.

Design tip: If you are looking for a custom blind solution, we can help design it! Choose your material—mesh for privacy or clear PVC for seamless views— learn the nuance in mesh shade colours, and select the right pelmets, brackets, and bottom bars to match your outdoor space. Custom powder-coating options are also available to perfectly match your décor to the Dulux range.

Auckland Villa – White Shade Sails Under Glass Pergola

In this timeless villa in Auckland, white shade sails were custom-made to fit perfectly beneath a glass pergola. The effect created a shaded, airy look that we think blends beautifully with the villa’s classic architecture.

With six sails strategically installed, the space offers ample shade, allowing the homeowners to enjoy their patio in style and comfort.

Our client was delighted with the effect.

Natural Tones for a Seamless Look

For this outdoor deck in Auckland, our client selected the Extreme32 shade sail in “Hazel,” a warm, natural shade.

The generous 5×8 metre shade sail is supported with white poles, covers a spacious deck and combines beautifully with the natural deck below.

This shade fabric doesn’t just look good—it’s highly functional, providing UV protection and heat reduction for relaxing summer days. Extreme32 is heavy duty, meaning it doesn’t need to be taken down during the winter, and it comes with a 15 year fabric warranty.

The attention to detail in the seams and heavy-duty ratchet roof fixings adds durability and visual appeal, showcasing how our solutions at Sunshade are built to withstand New Zealand’s weather conditions.

It’s about enhancing outdoor living spaces, and making sure that what you install will last the test of time.

Get Inspired with Sunshade

If you have an outdoor space calling out for shade, let our team at Sunshade custom design a high-quality, protective solution just for you. From shade sails to versatile outdoor blinds, we have extensive expertise in this specific area of shade solutions.

With over 20 years of expertise, and a network of seasoned local licensees, we’ll guide you through every step—from selecting the perfect fabric and frame colours to choosing manual or motorized operation for ease of use.

Make the most of your summer outdoors with a shade solution designed to last.
Contact us to start planning your perfect outdoor retreat!

Providing safe and durable shade solutions for schools and playgrounds is crucial for protecting tamariki and rangatahi from harmful UV rays. It’s also about creating a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor environment.

With over 20 years of expertise in the field, Sunshade has developed a reputation for creating custom-designed, high-quality shade systems that cater to the unique needs of the ed sector.

Here our team cover off the top five shade solutions specifically designed for schools and early childhood centres, focusing on safety and durability. 

1. Exterior Classroom Shades

Classroom environments are made much more livable through exterior shading solutions that reduce glare and heat inside. For example, Ziptrak® mesh screens and exterior shade sails are perfect for classrooms exposed to the sun.

These solutions not only protect students from UV exposure and heat but also enhance the learning environment by minimising glare on screens and whiteboards. Custom-fitted to the veranda or building, shades can improve comfort and energy efficiency.

2. Playgrounds

Playgrounds require robust and safe shading solutions to protect children while at play. Shade sails and outdoor shade structures are ideal for these areas, providing extensive UV protection and durability.

Experienced shade sail designers will ensure height and angles are programmed to provide optimum coverage at key times of the day through the year.

Additionally, installing pole pads around playground equipment prevents collisions, enhancing overall health and safety.

3. Seating & Lunch Areas

Shaded seating and lunch areas allow students to enjoy their breaks and meals in comfort. Using outdoor shade sails, shade structures, and commercial-strength Shade7 umbrellas, these areas can be shaded, reducing glare, heat and providing high UVR protection.

Sunshade consultants use 3D modeling to design these spaces, ensuring maximum coverage tailored to the school’s layout and sun trajectory.

4. School Pool Coverage

Ensuring adequate shade over school pools is essential for protecting children from excessive sun exposure while they swim and spectate.

Custom-designed shade sails or outdoor shade structures provide optimal coverage, offering up to 95.8% UVR block depending on the fabric colour. These solutions enhance the safety and usability of the pool area. Choosing a high-quality textile will also ensure colour-fastness for years to come.

5. Sandpits

Sandpits are popular play areas that need effective shading to protect younger children from direct sunlight. Our shade sails for sandpits keep these areas cool and safe for extended play, using high UVR block fabrics to maintain a comfortable temperature and protect sensitive skin.

Sandpit covers made from durable, UV-resistant materials, protect toys and keep the sandpit clean overnight. Custom-designed to fit the sandpit shape and for practical application, straps and toggles can be designed to ensure an easy job for the teachers at the start and end of the day.

Why Choose Sunshade?

Benefit from Sunshade’s 20+ years’ creating amazing shade + screen spaces for NZ’s young people. At Sunshade, we bring you innovative ideas for getting more use out of your outdoor areas. Sunshade excels in designing and installing shade solutions for kohanga to high schools.

• Experience. Our local experts understand the specific needs of educational settings and use 3D modeling to tailor shade solutions to each school’s layout and sun path.
• Durable & colour-fast. Our fabrics offer up to 95.8% UVR block, depending on the colour choice of fabric. They can provide superior protection against harmful sun exposure.
• We know schools. Understanding the importance of maintaining a safe and uninterrupted school environment, our install process is flexible and designed to minimise disruption, with careful consideration of school schedules and health and safety requirements.

Budgets & helping you achieve the investment

Outdoor weather protection can be a significant investment, especially with tight budgets and funding opportunities.

We provide clear, upfront costs to avoid unexpected expenses, and can break the project up into chunks if needed. If fundraising is required, you’ll know your targets and can be assured your budget will stay on track. Let us know your scenario and we can work in with your needs.

By choosing Sunshade, schools and playgrounds can benefit from expertly designed shade solutions that prioritise safety, durability, and maximum UV protection, enhancing the overall outdoor experience for all students.

Talk to your Local Sunshade specialist in shade + screen today and find out how we can help keep your Tamariki safe and shades looking awesome for years to come!

Looking to Create Your Own Outdoor Blinds Enclosure?

Let one of our local experts help you create your sanctuary. Each of us has at least 15 years of specialist experience in the trade. One option to start with is to use the Ziptrak® “design your blind” feature to start planning.

We’d love to chat with you directly – contact us today for a quote and to see about a site visit.

REQUEST A QUOTE  At Sunshade, we are the Shade + Screen Specialists.

Searching for a high-quality shade sail of your own

To comprehend the substantial distinction that Sunshade shade sails can offer, seek advice from our local expert in your area. We’re here to help.

Have you been dreaming about creating a warm and inviting space to enjoy during the cold NZ winter months? Great call! We have created hundreds if not thousands of outdoor enclosures with patio blinds over the years. It’s a great way to make your space more usable and enjoyable, and our customers continue to use them for years into the future. 

In this article, we share our experience and advice to get your cosy outdoor space feeling ‘just right’. 

At Sunshade our patio blinds are an easy and stylish way to keep the chill away, while protecting your outdoor area from wind and rain. Read on for tips and information on how outdoor blinds can help create you a year-round sanctuary this winter.  

Why patio blinds in NZ?

Patio blinds provide a great way to protect your outdoor area from the elements, while creating a sheltered and inviting space. They can help keep warmth in and cold air out, making it much easier to enjoy being outdoors during colder months. Outdoor blinds also block wind, so you don’t have to worry about furniture or decorations blowing away on windy days.  

They’re also a great investment – significantly less than the cost of adding another room to your house, but radically enhancing the amount of usable space you have available every day. 

At Sunshade all our patio blinds are designed for New Zealand conditions, with superior protection against rain, wind, and harsh UV rays.  

Considering the options for your blinds

There are many different types of patio blinds available to suit any outdoor space, from traditional curtains to roller shades and more.  

At Sunshade, we provide two different types of patio blinds – Ziptrak® blinds and manual roll-up blinds.  

Ziptrak® outdoor blinds are designed for convenience with a track system that allows the blind to be opened and closed quickly and easily. They also come with lockable arms for extra security against strong winds.  

Manual roll-up patio blinds are perfect for spaces where the budget  might not stretch to a Ziptrak® system but you could still benefit from a custom fit.  

Both options come in a range of stylish mesh colours or clear PVC to suit any outdoor area. 

Don’t forget the essentials

When looking at blinds, be sure to consider the size and shape of your patio area, as well as how much light you want to let in when choosing which patio blind will work best for your space. Do you desire a custom fit, or are you happy with off-the-shelf? 

Quality, strength, and longevity is another important factor to remember. If you want yours to last, you’re in the right place. 

Our Sunshade crew are well versed in these products, so making a choice can be easy with the right advice. No matter your space, we’d enjoy discussing your needs to find something that works for you.  

What’s going to work best in your environment? 

As well as the size and shape of your patio area, and how much light or shade you need, it’s helpful to think about what kind of material will work best for you based on the type of climate you live in.  

Different materials can offer different levels of heat insulation and sun protection. At Sunshade our team can help you design an outdoor screen system that includes quality materials as standard to ensure both comfort and style.  

Also keep in mind any existing decor or furniture that could be impacted by new patio blinds. You’ll want something that adds to rather than detracts from your outdoor space and keeps your furniture and home interiors in nice condition. 

How easy are they to operate?

One often overlooked area is to consider the ease of use and safety when selecting patio blinds. Sunshade patio blinds such as Ziptrak® motorised patio screens offer plenty of convenience with their easy-to-use tracks, no cords or pulleys, and secure operation. Many customers are also happy to operate their Ziptrak® screen with a simple pull-down stick that can be included.  

In the case of manual roll-up blinds, these are what they say on the packet, so it’s a bit more of a hands-on process to roll them up and down.  

Motorised options can also be powered by solar energy, such as the SolarSmart unit we can offer with our Ziptrak® systems. 

Clear PVC or mesh?

At Sunshade, we offer patio blinds in both mesh and clear PVC options. Mesh patio blinds are an ideal solution if you’re looking to keep out the wind while still maintaining a view and letting in natural light. The breathable material helps create an environment that is comfortable year-round, without sacrificing your scenic views.  

Clear PVC patio blinds provide superior protection against rain and wind, as well as having great heat insulation properties for added warmth during wintertime.  

For your patio blind enclosure you might like to mix and match between the two (we go further on this in our earlier article here). Many of our customers choose this option to provide shade where the summer sun is prevalent, and let the views and light in where the winter sun can provide warmth.  

Let’s talk about safety

From a health & safety perspective, a complete patio blind enclosure needs to be able to be easily opened in the event of an emergency.  Additionally, outdoor blinds act as a physical barrier between you and many of the nasty insects or pests that might be lurking in your outdoor area during winter.  

Consider also any children or animals that may be in your space. If there are pets or small children rocking around, you might prefer to get patio blinds without cords so they don’t get tangled up in them (our Ziptrak® blinds do not have cords).  

Additionally, if you want something that’s easy to use every day, look for patio blinds that operate via remote control – this way you can easily adjust the opening and closing of your patio blind from the comfort of your cushy deck chair. 

To sum it up: decent patio blinds can really bring the cosy factor

Quality patio blinds are an ideal way to create a warm and inviting space throughout the colder months. They offer protection against wind, rain and other elements while keeping warmth in and cold air out. Designed and installed well, they’ll also provide invaluable protection come spring and summer. 

Ready to create your own safe harbour from the elements?

At Sunshade our team of local experts can walk you through the options for creating a custom screen solution for your space. Each piece of the puzzle will be customised to fit your needs and your space in the way that will work for you. 

We invite you to learn more about our Ziptrak patio blinds or manual roll-up blinds here, and get in touch if you’re keen for a quote. 

Reach out to our team today! 

Is the Shade7 Riviera the best cantilever umbrella in NZ? We sure think so! With its luxurious design and features, it is perfect for any discerning kiwi home. From the shade it provides to the easy-to-use operation, the Riviera is certainly a step up from your average umbrella. Learn here why we think it’s the best of the best.

Introducing: the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella

At Sunshade, we believe the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella offers the perfect addition to any outdoor living space. We should know – we’re installing them all the time!

This stylish and versatile sun umbrella is designed to keep you protected from the harsh New Zealand sun, so you can spend time outside in comfort. The cantilever design offers an elegant look, effortlessly adding a touch of opulence to your garden or deck. No centre poles, just uncluttered open space.

More than just looking good, this strong cantilever umbrella can adjust with you as the day goes on – allowing you to cast shade continuously around your area as the light shifts. Whether it’s a summer evening outdoors or a lazy afternoon in the sun, Shade7’s Riviera cantilever umbrella ticks many boxes.

What can this umbrella do?

For Kiwis in search of premium outdoor umbrellas, Sunshade’s cantilever umbrellas are the perfect balance of strength and durability. The Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella provides 360 degree finger-tip rotation operation with a stylish anodised aluminum frame and marine grade fabric.

Built to last, it is certified for use in NZ’s harsh UV conditions and is one of few cantilevers frequently used on high-end resorts and vessels. With the added benefit of blocking up to 98% of UV rays, the Riviera is a strong choice.

Note-worthy features include:

• Full 360 degree rotation with 16 locking locations – no matter which way the sun is moving throughout the day, you’ll have maximum coverage
• Infinity tilt system to get the spot just right
• Built tough for windy locations – you can see it here on YouTube undergoing a consistent 40kph wind test
• Folds tidily back to the mast when closed
• Available in octagonal or square (in both 3m and 3.5m options)
• 20 block colours and 5 striped colour options to choose from – allowing you to make a bright or bold statement to suit your taste

Boasting a streamlined, elegant aesthetic, the Riviera offers a touch of luxe to any outdoor area, delivering the perfect level of understated opulence. We are regularly installing them at residential poolsides, patios, decks as well as in commercial spaces such as eateries and staff shared spaces.

With the Riviera you can relax, unwind and enjoy life without worrying about whether your umbrella is up to the task.

So, how does it stack up?

Compared to other sun umbrellas available in NZ, the Shade7 Riviera:

• is very easy to use – the handle is nice to wind up and down and tilting is smooth and easy
• has a specifically designed canopy that ensures reliability and structural integrity
• is made from quality fabrics (with a 10 year warranty)
• is constructed of high performance fibreglass frames
• has optional clip-on rechargeable LEDs for evening ambience
• can be installed virtually anywhere – with fixings for wooden decks, concrete patios, in-ground installations, or free-standing with two sturdy base options

Plus, as with any Shade7 umbrella, you won’t have to compromise on looks or functionality.

With the Riviera we believe you will find an unbeatable combination of sturdy construction, fine finishing, and clever sun protection features.

These outdoor umbrellas allow you to adapt to variable weather conditions while enabling a safe sun protection experience.

Could this be the perfect sun umbrella to enjoy your sunny NZ days outdoors?

Cantilever umbrella reviews from people who have one

Here at Sunshade, we regularly have customers from all around New Zealand rave about the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella. Some common remarks include ones like this:

“This umbrella is such good quality – it looks amazing in my outdoor area and offers great protection from the sun!”

“It’s super easy to open and close, and it has been strong enough to withstand long days of high winds.”

Shade7’s own website includes 58 reviews from customers about the Riviera, all giving it a 5-star.

At Sunshade we take pride in offering our customers only the best cantilever umbrellas on the market. Hence why we choose Shade7.

If you would like to experience the quality for yourself, let us know.

Professional installation makes sense

Our professionals from Sunshade can help ensure that your Shade7 umbrella is installed safely and properly so that you won’t have to worry about any surprises down the track. Part of our service is to advise you on the appropriate base, fixings, and positioning for your property, so we get it right first time.

Adapting to the nuances of your property is no problem. We’ll listen to your needs and come up with clever solutions that pay attention to the details of your site.

We encourage you to use our experience in 10+ years installing these umbrellas, and support a local family business at the same time!

Are you in the market for a high performing outdoor umbrella?

At Sunshade we can walk you through the range of Shade7 umbrellas, each with special features designed to provide sun protection and outdoor ease.

With impressive designs, you can experience a fancy yet classic kiwi shade-shelter no matter where you are.

To truly get the perfect sun protection for your area, make an enquiry with one of our local expert installers.

Send us an enquiry, you won’t be disappointed!

When it comes to keeping your home or business cool and comfortable, PVC outdoor blinds are an excellent choice. But what type of screen is best for you?  Should you opt for clear PVC screens, or coloured mesh screens? Here at Sunshade, we know a thing or two about outdoor blinds, so let’s dive in and explore the pros and cons of both options.

Clear PVC Screens

Clear PVC screens are a great option if you want to create a semi-permanent barrier between your home or business and the sun. They’re great at filtering out UV rays while still allowing natural light inside, so they don’t make the interior feel too dark. The material is also durable and easy to clean with a simple cleanser and water.

Clear PVC is a popular choice for sun-trap patio blinds at home. Also at kohangas and kindergartens they are great for keeping the kiddies warm from the wind while still being able to see what is going on outside.

Advantages:

• Lets in natural light
• Full view to the garden and outdoor space
• Traps sunlight and warmth in winter (especially if fully enclosed)
• Powdercoating on frame to match your joinery with Ziptrak screens
• Strong UVA/B protection

Disadvantages:

• Easier to see fingerprints than mesh screens
• Manual wind-up only – motorisation not available due to the the way PVC expands and contracts in the heat

Coloured Mesh Screens

If you’re looking for a more private or shaded option, coloured mesh screens may be the way to go. They come in a variety of colours, so you can choose one that matches your existing décor scheme. And because they’re made from flexible mesh fabric, they allow plenty of air into the room while still blocking out UV rays. However, they can require more frequent cleaning than clear PVC screens due to their tendency to collect dust and dirt over time.

Coloured mesh screens can be a wonderful option for flexible shade and privacy right when the sun is glaring in, and allow you to open things up fully when you need more indoor/outdoor flow.

Advantages:

• A range of modern colours to choose from to match your décor
• Good visibility to the outdoors / garden, especially if a darker shade is chosen
• Breathable
• Powdercoating on frame to match your joinery with Ziptrak screens
• Strong UVA/B protection
• Versatile shade from the sun
• Offers privacy from the outside in

Disadvantages:

• Lets in a bit more dust than solid clear PVC option
• A small amount of wind and rain can also be expected in due to its porous nature
• Needs to be cleaned in the cracks (but don’t worry we have easy guides for this)

If you think both clear PVC blinds and mesh blinds could be useful, you can also mix and match!

Options for Installation

At Sunshade we are able to install blinds to your existing pergola frame or roof system, or work in with a new structure that you may be building.

We offer the more basic manual roll-up blinds as well as expert installation of the Ziptrak® track-guided blind system.

Everything is made to order so you know you are getting the best fit and protection for your space.

Having an experienced installer can make a big difference in getting the lasting result you deserve. Our licensees have a minimum 10 years with these products and are based across the country – check out our locations here.

To get started, a custom quote is your first port of call. Give us a call or drop us a message to discuss the best options for your property.

When it comes to choosing between clear PVC or coloured mesh screens for your New Zealand home, school or business, there’s no “one size fits all” solution — it really depends on your personal needs and preferences.

For example, if you want something semi-permanent that provides protection from UV rays without making the room feel too dark, then clear PVC could be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if privacy or shade is your top priority then coloured mesh might be the best option for you.

Whichever option you choose, Sunshade has got your back!

Get in touch with us today for all your outdoor screen needs in Aotearoa NZ!

Talk to your local expert, or fire us a quote request today. 

Shade sails have been around since the age of the Ancient Egyptians, and they’ve proven themselves to be one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your outdoor areas from the sun. Over the years we’ve been involved in many awesome shade projects, so we thought we’d share some of our favourites. 

Shade sails for an early childhood centre, schools and other educational institutions.

We’ve done a lot of shade sail installations for ECEs, including the one pictured above at Cumberland Kindergarten in Hamilton. This is the ideal location for a shade sail: close to the building, but offering a sun shade spanning over two different popular play areas. In keeping with the centre’s branding, the colours are bright and bold.

Shade sails create a safe and shady space for play, providing extremely high UV protection and shelter from the sun. Shade sails create a functional space that not only looks good but offers protection from the weather.

We also have continued to supply sun shelters to a number of schools to protect students from the sun.

The first above is a large, sheltered outdoor space at Taradale High School in Hawke’s Bay where students can relax while they study or eat lunch.

The second is at Tui Glen School in Stokes Valley in Wellington where the shade sails shelter the junior student’s play equipment, picnic areas, and more!   A vibrant and practical cost-effective solution, both of which have great aesthetic appeal and add a contemporary feel to school buildings.

Shade sails for the community

Shade sails are an ideal solution for many types of businesses and organisations. You can find us working on shade sails for restaurants, and we also install shading systems for parks and recreational facilities such as community swimming pools, parks and playgrounds, marae, churches and picnic areas.

A shade sail is an easy-to-install alternative to a traditional pergola roof or solid structure because it requires no heavy machinery or complicated construction methods. The shades are made from lightweight materials that can be installed onto virtually any surface with little more than straps and ratchets. Some types of shade sails may require some additional support or bracketry, but they save time and come with minimal disruption to erect them.

• The images above illustrate how two large installations create totally different shade solutions and cleverly complement their surroundings.
• Our structures are PS1 compliant to ensure they can withstand all the elements.

Here are some of our favourite shade sail installations in New Zealand for private residences.

At Sunshade, we understand that your shade sails are more than just a place to chill out and enjoy the sun. They’re an investment in your home and lifestyle, and therefore deserve to be built to last.

Above are some examples of how we’ve installed shade sails for private residential customers in New Zealand, including an award-winning Auckland installation (shown centre).

Because Sunshade Shade Sails are custom-made to fit the specific needs of each customer, they are extremely popular for private residences. No off-the-shelf here!

Shade sails also add a certain architectural design element to the home, and they come in a variety of colours to match your style.

At Sunshade our shade sails are designed using 3D software, ensuring that they meet your precise specifications. In addition, our system allows for a straightforward process as well as access to our local expert installers from the get-go.

Talk to us about your shade sail project

We hope you enjoyed reading about some of the shading projects that we’ve been involved with. If you’re interested in installing shade sails on your property whether it’s for public or private use, please give us a call or message today!

We’d love to work with you.

Nothing is worse than having to chase shade for your children in the middle of a long, hot summer day. A decent shade solution for your outdoor area could be one of the best investments you make for your family. Here are five things we believe are important to consider when choosing your shade at home to suit the whole family. 

Sun Shelters: What do your kids need? 

A summer day outdoors is a perfect way to spend time with friends and family. However, for some, the sun isn’t always a pleasant experience. It can cause irreversible damage to our skin if we don’t take care of it properly. Children are particularly susceptible to the sun’s rays. Mainly as we now know, you still need to be careful even on cloudy days. This is because the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate through clouds, inferior quality fabrics, and even the foliage around your property.

Here are the 5 Things To Consider When Choosing Shade At Home for Your Children 

1. Determine the Area Which Requires The Most Protection 

It’s essential to consider your children’s needs when buying a sun shade for your home. They may have an area that is the most popular hangout or where they spend the most time playing. It might be where the children easily run in and out to get toys or food.  

It could also be where they play on the swing set or slide. Do you have shade there already? Be aware that those harmful UV rays can penetrate even if trees shade them. 

You might want to consider where and when your child spends time in certain areas of the property/deck/courtyard so that you can observe their choices. This might indicate where they tend to spend most of their time.  

2. Figure Out The Amount of Space You Have For The Furniture And Still Leave Room For The Children to Play

Choosing the right sun shade option for your family and your children depends on how much space you have for furniture, leaving enough room for your children to play on the deck, patio or other designated outdoor area. 

You may wish to consider the area you have and what you plan to do with this. How many children could potentially be playing there? When it comes to your downtime, how can you make it comfortable for them while still allowing yourself to enjoy it?  

Take into account your children’s needs when placing a sun shade in an outdoor area. Do they like the comfort of having walls around them, or are they a little too wild while playing outdoors? 

 If they prefer to play inside, consider getting an outdoor shade solution with sides or screens with enough room to cater for a play table for games. Creating an enclosed space with our Ziptrak® outdoor blinds could be an excellent solution. 

3. Look at when your children will be outside most often. Will they need shade in the morning, afternoon or both?

For a parent, especially with a toddler or younger child, there’s nothing worse than peeling your kid off the ground and taking them inside in the middle of a fun playtime outside when you know the temperature will get dangerously hot.  

Think about where your children will be most often and what time of day that will be, and use this information to help you decide what kind of shade/shelter is best for your situation. For example, do they play outside in the morning or prefer to go out later in the afternoon?

If you manage to create a space that also lets through a nice breeze, you could find yourself saving on the power bills from running an AC all day. Furthermore, if it’s a windy area, what protection have you got in place for them to still continue with their play? 

Does the area include any sources of water which your children might need to access as part of their play? You don’t want them running back and forth from exposed areas, as it kind of defeats the purpose of keeping them sheltered.  

4. Think about the best fabric options for UV protection and water resistance 

Summer heat is no joke, especially for children who aren’t prepared to handle its rays. The right shade could protect them from overheating, sunburn, melanoma, and other skin conditions later in life.  

To make sure you’re getting the best protection for your children, consider the following:  

• For the best possible protection, you should consider which canvas to choose for a shade sail: whether it should be light or dark, and what UV protection rating it has.
• As well as determining the appearance of your shade sail, your choices will affect the functionality of the sun shade.
• Lighter fabrics will absorb more heat, keeping you cooler under them. Shade sails in lighter colours reflect the sun’s rays, making them popular choices. Darker fabrics, however, offer more UV protection. 
• There are also different degrees of water resistance in coated fabrics, which is why we offer a variety of textile choices. Shade sails can be built from extra-strong fabrics, which can also provide complete rain protection and reduce the need for taking them down in the windy season.

View some of our shade sail projects to see if these could be a good solution for your space.

5. Go for quality over price

When buying a sun shade for your family, it is important to go for quality over price. Purchasing an inexpensive sun shade may seem like your first choice, but your savings will only be temporary. 

It is more likely for a cheap, inferior quality sun shade to rip, tear, or fade than a quality one. You could find yourself replacing the sun shade before the summer is over. For this reason, we engineer, design, and stand by every sun shade weather protection solution we install, and all our textiles are backed by impressive UV warranties. 

Knowing ahead of time what features you want in a sun shade can help you from making impulse purchases that aren’t effective. Take a look at the options, observe your children’s outdoor play habits, and come up with a list based on your observations. This will determine what is best for you and your family. 

We hope these tips have given you insight into what to look for when buying a sun shade. Remember to go with your budget, but don’t be afraid of investing in a quality product that will last. Because nothing is more precious than protecting your family from the harsh elements

Thinking of sorting a shade sail or other custom NZ made sun shade solution?

Our bespoke shade solutions offer far superior results compared to any off-the-shelf alternatives.  

By working with Sunshade NZ, you will benefit from the extra investment in our expertise, quality fabrication, and bespoke design solutions that will provide excellent protection for the whole family and add value to your property. 

If you’re planning to get your outdoor living shade solutions sorted before summer, we hope these tips will be helpful.   

Talk to your local expert, or fire us a quote request today.