resources

Useful
Information.

FAQs, technical specifications, blog posts, and useful references for councils, architects, developers and businesses planning a shelter project.

Company

About NZ Shelters

Our story, our team, and how we work. NZ Shelters has been supplying aluminium shelters to councils and organisations across New Zealand for over 20 years.

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About us

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions,
Straight Answers.

Things people ask us regularly. If your question isn't here, just get in touch.

What standard sizes do you offer?
Our standard widths are 2.4m, 3m, 3.6m, and 5m, all at a standard 1.2m depth. Slimline shelters have a 600mm platform with a 600mm roof overhang. Overhung shelters have a 1.2m platform with a 600mm overhang. Standard sizes benefit from pre-engineered designs, which means no additional engineering fees and faster lead times.
‍Can you do custom sizes?
Yes. Custom sizes are straightforward for us and available on request. The main difference is that custom sizes require additional engineering input, which adds cost and lead time compared to our standard range. If you can work to a standard size, we'd recommend it. If your site requires something different, we can accommodate it.
What cladding options are available?
Our two standard cladding options are Full Glass (FG) using 10.38mm laminated safety glass, and Vandal Proof (VP) using perforated aluminium panels. We also offer a Combo (COM) configuration with VP panels along the base and glass in the upper sections. This gives a balance of weather protection and vandal resistance, and is popular in medium-risk environments.
Are your shelters Building Code compliant?
Yes. All our shelters are engineered to comply with current New Zealand Building Code requirements. Documentation is available on request. For standard sizes this is covered by our pre-engineered designs. Custom configurations are independently engineered and stamped accordingly.
Does the price include freight and installation?
Yes. Our quotes are fixed-price and include supply, freight, and installation as standard. The number we quote is the number you pay, provided your brief doesn't change.
How long does delivery take?
Lead times vary depending on order size and current production schedule. Standard sizes are generally faster than custom. As a guide, standard units are typically 4 to 6 weeks from order confirmation. We confirm lead times at the quoting stage so you can plan accordingly.
Do smoking shelters comply with Clean Air legislation?
Yes, when correctly specified. Our smoking and vaping shelters are designed to meet NZ Clean Air Guidelines, which require a minimum open area for natural ventilation. We specify shelters correctly from the outset so you don't need to worry about compliance. If you're unsure what your site requires, just ask us and we'll advise.
‍Do you install nationwide?
Yes. We install shelters across New Zealand. Installation is included in our standard quote. If your site has unusual access requirements or is in a remote location, let us know early so we can factor that into the programme and pricing.
What maintenance do aluminium shelters require?
Very little. Aluminium doesn't rust or rot, so the main maintenance requirement is periodic cleaning. A wash-down with water and mild detergent once or twice a year keeps the powder coat looking good. Glass panels can be cleaned with standard glass cleaner. There are no structural maintenance requirements under normal use.
Can shelters be branded with our colours or logo?
Yes. Powder coat can be applied in any colour, including custom corporate colours matched to RAL or Resene codes. We can also accommodate branding panels and custom cladding. This is popular with airports, large corporates, and councils wanting a consistent look across their network.
What is a Combo shelter?
A Combo (COM) shelter uses vandal-proof perforated aluminium panels in the lower sections, typically up to around mid-height, and laminated safety glass in the upper sections. This is a practical choice for sites with moderate vandalism risk: the lower panels take the abuse while the upper glass maintains visibility and a quality appearance.
Do you work with architects and designers?
Yes, and we enjoy it. Architects often specify shelter requirements as part of a broader public space or infrastructure project. We're happy to work from your drawings and specifications, provide product information for inclusion in specs, and collaborate on custom configurations. Get in touch early in the design process and we can provide technical input that saves time later.
Blog

Straight Talk on
Shelters.

Blog Image
28 May
2026
Technology
By
Silas Cottle
Glass vs Vandal Proof: Choosing the Right Cladding for Your Shelter

Discover More

Discover More

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technical information

Specifications &
Technical Details.

Reference information for architects, engineers, and council procurement teams. For specific project drawings, engineering documentation, or custom sizes and options, contact us directly.

Standard Size Reference
  • Standard widths
    2.4m, 3m, 3.6m, 5m
  • Standard depth (TYP/OF)
    1.2m
  • Slimline depth (SL)
    600mm platform + 600mm overhang
  • Overhung depth (OV)
    1.2m platform + 600mm overhang
  • Custom sizes
    Available on request
  • Standard size benefit
    No additional engineering fee; faster lead time
Standard sizes are pre-engineered. Custom sizes require additional engineering input — add approx. 2 to 3 weeks to lead time and allow for engineering cost.
Frame & Structure
  • Frame material
    Heavy-gauge aluminium extrusion
  • Post section
    NZ Shelters 90 x 90 SHS
  • Roof material
    6mm Mini Orb corrugated iron
  • Base fixings
    120mm galvanised Tru Bolts into concrete
  • Fasteners
    6.4mm structural construction rivets
  • Finish
    Dulux Duralloy colour range
  • Code compliance
    Engineered to current NZ Building Code
Engineering documentation available on request for building consent applications.
Cladding Specifications
  • Full Glass (FG)
    10.38mm laminated safety glass
  • Vandal Proof (VP)
    Perforated aluminium panels
  • Combo (COM)
    Laminated (not tempered)
All glass panels use laminated safety glass, which holds together if broken, in line with NZ Building Code requirements for public shelters.
Smoking Shelter Compliance
  • Governing document
    Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Act 1990
  • Recommended type
    Open front with overhung roof (3m OV)
  • Distance from entrances
    Refer to local council requirements
Requirements can vary. We advise on compliance at the specification stage and design shelters to meet guidelines as standard. Always confirm placement distances with your council.
useful links

External Resources &
References.

External resources that may be useful when planning a shelter project or specifying shelter-related compliance requirements.

Interactive Tool
Shelter Size Guide
Select type, width, and cladding to view the 3D diagram, elevations, and full specifications for any standard configuration.
Learn More ➔
building compliance
NZ Building Code
MBIE's building performance website — the authoritative source for NZ Building Code requirements, including structural and public assembly provisions.
Learn More ➔
smoking compliance
Smoke-free Environments Act
Ministry of Health guidance on smoke-free legislation, including requirements for designated smoking areas and shelter compliance.
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H&S Compliance
WorkSafe New Zealand
WorkSafe guidance on workplace welfare facilities, including requirements for outdoor workers and rest areas under the Health and Safety at Work Act.
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transport infrastructure
Waka Kotahi NZTA
National guidance on public transport infrastructure, including bus stop design standards relevant to shelter specification for councils.
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our products
Product Specifications
Full details on our shelter range — standard sizes, cladding options, and configurations for bus shelters, smoking shelters, and welfare shelters.
Learn More ➔
Our Process
How We Work
Our five-step project process from initial brief through to ongoing support. Useful reference for procurement planning and programme scheduling.
Learn More ➔