Understanding Gate Types for New Zealand Driveways

Weighing swing, sliding and automated designs

Understanding Gate Types for New Zealand Driveways

Weighing swing, sliding and automated designs

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A driveway gate is equal parts welcome sign and security screen. In Aotearoa’s salt‑laden air and gusty winds, the mechanism you choose must shrug off corrosion, move smoothly and meet safety rules without constant tinkering.

Single swing gates open like a door, so they’re simple to automate but need clear space equal to their length. Double swing versions halve the arc and suit wide entrances on flat sites. Stainless hinges and latches are a must within a kilometre of the coast to avoid tea‑staining.

Sliding gates shine where space is tight or the drive rises steeply. A single panel tracks to one side; for very wide entries, twin sliders split the span and reduce motor size. Drainage under the rail is critical—one storm’s worth of grit can jam the rollers.

Automation adds convenience but also obligations. Building code clause F9 and most council bylaws require safety sensors so a powered gate stops if it touches an obstacle and never swings across a public footpath. Battery back‑up keeps the system working in outages.

Measure slope, camber and wind exposure before ordering any gate, and match material to conditions: powder‑coated aluminium for low care, hot‑dip galvanised steel for heavy duty or dressed timber for heritage charm. A half‑hour site visit by a fabricator can save years of squeaks and call‑outs.

A driveway gate is equal parts welcome sign and security screen. In Aotearoa’s salt‑laden air and gusty winds, the mechanism you choose must shrug off corrosion, move smoothly and meet safety rules without constant tinkering.

Single swing gates open like a door, so they’re simple to automate but need clear space equal to their length. Double swing versions halve the arc and suit wide entrances on flat sites. Stainless hinges and latches are a must within a kilometre of the coast to avoid tea‑staining.

Sliding gates shine where space is tight or the drive rises steeply. A single panel tracks to one side; for very wide entries, twin sliders split the span and reduce motor size. Drainage under the rail is critical—one storm’s worth of grit can jam the rollers.

Automation adds convenience but also obligations. Building code clause F9 and most council bylaws require safety sensors so a powered gate stops if it touches an obstacle and never swings across a public footpath. Battery back‑up keeps the system working in outages.

Measure slope, camber and wind exposure before ordering any gate, and match material to conditions: powder‑coated aluminium for low care, hot‑dip galvanised steel for heavy duty or dressed timber for heritage charm. A half‑hour site visit by a fabricator can save years of squeaks and call‑outs.

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