NZ Made Shade Sails by Lidgard

Outdoor living is part of the New Zealand way of life. Whether it’s relaxing at home, eating outside at a café, or our tamariki playing outside, having the right shade makes these spaces more enjoyable and comfortable.

Cost-Effective Outdoor Shade

Lidgard Shades has been a trusted name for more than 50 years. Founded by Jim Lidgard in 1973, the company began with a passion for quality sail-making and a drive to craft products that perform in New Zealand’s tough conditions. Today, that same craftsmanship continues across our range of shade sails, retractable awnings, outdoor blinds, and canopies, all designed and made in house locally.

At Lidgard, we believe in helping Kiwis make the most of a life outdoors. Our products are made to last and to protect you from the elements while keeping your outdoor areas looking great.

Why Choose a Lidgard Shade Sail

A shade sail is a simple, effective way to provide protection from the sun while keeping your space light and open. Shade sails can be designed to fit almost any space and can be installed in creative ways to complement your surroundings.

They’re ideal for homes, schools, and commercial spaces. You’ll see them shading playgrounds, car parks, patios, and café courtyards all across New Zealand. The versatility of a shade sail makes it a smart choice when you want reliable cover that looks good and adds value to your property.

Built for New Zealand Conditions

New Zealand has one of the harshest sun environments in the world and quality shade makes a real difference. Our shade sails are designed and made to handle local weather, including strong UV exposure, wind, and rain. They create cooler, safer outdoor spaces by blocking harmful UV rays and reducing heat. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a school lunch area, or an outdoor seating zone for a business, a Lidgard shade sail helps protect people from the elements.

Custom Design and Local In House Manufacturing

Every Lidgard shade sail is custom-made to suit its space. Our design team works with you to understand your needs, measure your site, and create a tailored solution that looks and performs exactly as it should.

We manufacture all our sails locally in house using high-quality materials and proven techniques. This allows us to maintain tight quality control, provide faster turnaround times, and ensure every sail meets our standards for strength and durability.

Our sails use premium fabrics, UV-stable stitching, and marine-grade fittings for long-term reliability. We design for both function and style, giving you an attractive structure that fits perfectly into your outdoor environment.

Fabric and Colour Options

The colour and texture of a shade sail can transform your space. We offer a wide range of fabrics and colours so you can match your home or business style. Our premium Commercial 95 fabric range is designed to seamlessly blend your outdoor living with hardwearing materials and stunning colour options.

For waterproof shade sails, we use pre-tensioned architectural PVC that is lightweight yet strong. All fabrics are UV-stabilised and backed by a warranty, ensuring long-lasting protection and colour retention even in the toughest sun conditions.

Craftsmanship and Quality

Our motto is simple — Do it once, do it right. Lidgard Shades has been designing and making shade sails in New Zealand for over 20 years. Each sail is built using durable materials and expert construction techniques that guarantee performance.

Shade Sail Specifications

Fabrics – Highest UV block-out mesh, dimensionally stable, and fire-retardant options available.

Thread – UV-stable PTFE thread for strength and longevity.

Perimeter Wire – Stainless steel wire crimped at each corner for secure tensioning.

Fixings – Marine-grade 300-series stainless steel components.

Posts – Galvanised steel or timber posts, engineered for strength.

Weather Rating – Designed to withstand wind forces up to gale strength.

Warranty – 5-year warranty on workmanship and 10-year warranty on materials.

Practical and Cost-Effective

A shade sail offers an affordable way to improve your outdoor area without the cost of building a full structure. Installation is quick, and maintenance is simple. With proper care, a well-made sail will last for many years, making it a smart investment for both homes and businesses.

Because our sails are made in New Zealand, you also get local support, expert installation, and access to replacement parts or adjustments if needed. You’re dealing directly with the team that designs, manufactures, and installs your shade sail.

Make the Most of a Life Outdoors With a Lidgard Shade Sail

At Lidgard Shades, we’re proud to continue the legacy started by Jim Lidgard more than 50 years ago. Our locally made shade sails combine design, durability, and value to help Kiwis enjoy safer and more comfortable outdoor living.

Whether you’re shading a patio, playground, or café courtyard, our shade sails provide lasting protection and timeless style, made right here in New Zealand.

Ready to add shade to your space?
Contact us to book a free shade consultation with our team today and discover how a custom-made Lidgard shade sail can transform your outdoor area.