If you own a swimming pool in New Zealand, understanding the minimum pool fence height requirements is essential.

Failing to meet the correct height can result in failed inspections, fines, and safety risks. This guide explains exactly what height your pool fence must be in NZ and how to stay compliant in 2026.

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What Is the Minimum Pool Fence Height in NZ?

In New Zealand, the standard requirement is:

Minimum height: 1200mm (1.2 metres)

This measurement is taken from:

• The ground level outside the pool area

• Any climbable surface near the fence

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Important Height Rules You Must Follow

1. Ground Clearance

• The gap under the fence must not exceed 100mm

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2. No Climbable Zones

• No objects within 900mm – 1200mm of the fence

• Includes:

  • Outdoor furniture

  • BBQs

  • Trees or branches

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3. Boundary Fence Considerations

If using a boundary fence as part of your pool barrier:

• It must still meet 1200mm minimum height

• Must not be climbable from outside

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4. Gate Height & Latch Position

• Gate latch must be:

  • At least 1500mm above ground, OR

  • Located inside and child-proof

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Why 1200mm Height Is Required

The 1200mm height requirement is designed to:

• Prevent young children from climbing over

• Reduce accidental drowning risks

• Ensure consistent national safety standards

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Common Mistakes That Cause Non-Compliance

Many homeowners fail inspection due to:

• Fence installed slightly below 1200mm

• Landscaping changes reducing effective height

• Decking built too close to fence level

• Objects placed near fence creating climbable access

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Best Way to Ensure Compliance

Measure Correctly

Always measure from the highest adjacent surface outside the pool.

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Choose the Right System

Glass pool fencing is one of the easiest ways to meet height requirements:

• Clean vertical panels (no climb points)

• Precise installation

• Strong and durable

View compliant systems:
https://grandglass.co.nz/glass-pool-fencing/category/list

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Use Certified Gate Hardware

A compliant gate system is just as important as fence height:

Explore gate systems:
https://grandglass.co.nz/product/category/glass-gate-system

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Do Councils Check Fence Height?

Yes. Local councils regularly inspect pool barriers and will:

• Measure fence height

• Check for climbable risks

• Test gate function

If your fence is too low, you may:

• Fail inspection

• Be required to fix immediately

• Face fines

Learn about fines:
https://grandglass.co.nz/post/blog/pool-fence-fine-nz

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Final Thoughts

The minimum pool fence height in NZ is clear — 1200mm is non-negotiable.

Ensuring your fence meets this requirement not only keeps you compliant but also protects your family and avoids costly penalties.

If you’re unsure about your setup, upgrading to a compliant glass pool fencing system is a smart and long-term solution.

Making sure your pool fence is compliant in New Zealand is not just about avoiding fines — it’s about keeping your family safe.

If you're unsure whether your pool fence meets current regulations, this simple compliance checklist will help you identify any issues quickly and fix them before inspection.

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 Pool Fence Compliance Checklist (NZ)

Use this checklist to ensure your pool fencing meets NZ requirements:

Fence Height

• Minimum height must be 1200mm from ground level

• No ground gaps exceeding 100mm

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Gaps & Spacing

• Openings between vertical elements must be less than 100mm

• No gaps that a child could squeeze through

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Climbable Objects

• No climbable objects within 1.2m of the fence

• Includes:

  • Outdoor furniture

  • BBQs

  • Trees or shrubs

  • Planters or storage boxes

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Pool Gate Requirements

Your pool gate must:

• Open outwards (away from pool)

• Be self-closing

• Be self-latching

• Automatically latch from any open position

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Gate Latch Height

• At least 1500mm above ground, OR

• Positioned on the inside, out of reach of children

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Fence Structure

• No horizontal rails that can be used for climbing

• Strong and rigid construction

• No loose panels or damage

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What Happens If You Fail This Checklist?

If your pool fence does not meet compliance standards:

• You may fail council inspection

• You could be issued a compliance notice

• Re-inspection fees may apply

• Fines may be issued

Read more about penalties:
https://grandglass.co.nz/post/blog/pool-fence-fine-nz

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Why Glass Pool Fencing Makes Compliance Easier

Glass pool fencing is one of the easiest ways to meet NZ regulations:

• No climbable horizontal bars

• Clear visibility for supervision

• Precise panel spacing

• Durable and low maintenance

Explore compliant systems:
https://grandglass.co.nz/glass-pool-fencing/category/list

Gate hardware options:
https://grandglass.co.nz/product/category/glass-gate-system

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When Should You Check Your Pool Fence?

You should inspect your fence:

• Before a council inspection

• After installation

• After any landscaping changes

• At least once every 6–12 months

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Final Thoughts

Pool fence compliance in New Zealand is not complicated — but small mistakes can lead to serious consequences.

Using this checklist regularly ensures your pool area stays safe, compliant, and inspection-ready.

If you're unsure about your current setup, upgrading to a compliant glass fencing system can save you time, money, and stress.

If you own a swimming pool in New Zealand, ensuring your pool fence is compliant is not optional — it’s a legal requirement.

Failing to meet pool fencing regulations can result in fines, mandatory inspections, and even legal action. In this guide, we’ll break down pool fence fines in NZ, what causes them, and how to stay compliant in 2026.

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How Much Is the Pool Fence Fine in NZ?

In New Zealand, non-compliant pool fencing can result in:

• Instant fines issued by local councils

• Re-inspection fees

• Orders to fix or remove unsafe fencing

• Potential prosecution in serious cases

 Typical penalties include:

• Infringement fines: often starting from $300 – $500+

• Court fines: can go up to several thousand dollars

• Inspection fees: additional cost for follow-up visits

The exact amount depends on your local council and severity of the issue.

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 Common Reasons You Might Get Fined

Most pool fence fines happen due to simple but critical mistakes:

1. Fence Too Low

Minimum height is usually 1200mm from ground level.

2. Climbable Objects Nearby

Items like chairs, BBQs, or trees within 1.2m of the fence can make it non-compliant.

3. Gate Not Self-Closing

Pool gates must:

• Open outward

• Self-close

• Self-latch

4. Incorrect Latch Height

The latch must be:

• At least 1500mm above ground, OR

• Located on the inside and not accessible to children

5. Gaps Too Wide

Any gaps (under fence or between panels) must not allow a child to pass through.

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 What the NZ Building Code Requires

New Zealand pool fencing falls under strict safety laws designed to prevent child drowning.

To be compliant, your pool barrier must:

• Be at least 1200mm high

• Have no climbable features within 900–1200mm

• Include a compliant gate system

• Fully restrict access to the pool area

 If you're unsure, it's best to review your setup against a professional standard.

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 How to Avoid Pool Fence Fines

Here are practical ways to stay compliant:

 Regularly Check Your Fence

• Test gate closing and latching

• Inspect for loose panels or gaps

 Keep the Area Clear

• Remove climbable objects near the fence

 Use Compliant Hardware

• High-quality hinges and latches matter

 Explore compliant systems here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/product/category/glass-gate-system

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 Why Glass Pool Fencing Helps You Stay Compliant

Glass pool fencing is one of the safest and most compliant-friendly options:

• No horizontal rails (hard to climb)

• Clear visibility for supervision

• Strong and durable materials

• Easy to meet spacing and height requirements

 View compliant options:
https://grandglass.co.nz/glass-pool-fencing/category/list

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 What Happens During a Pool Inspection?

Councils regularly inspect residential pools.

During an inspection, they will check:

• Fence height

• Gate functionality

• Climbable risks

• Overall barrier integrity

 If your pool fails inspection:

• You will receive a notice to fix issues

• A re-inspection will be required (extra cost)

• Continued non-compliance can lead to fines

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Final Thoughts

Pool fence fines in New Zealand are avoidable — but only if you take compliance seriously.

A properly installed and maintained pool fence not only protects you from penalties but also ensures the safety of your family and others.

If you’re unsure about your current setup, it’s always better to upgrade to a compliant system than risk fines.

Installing a shower unit in New Zealand requires more than just choosing a design. Shower glass must comply with the NZ Building Code to ensure safety, durability, and legal compliance.

This guide explains the key shower glass regulations in NZ, including safety glazing requirements, glass thickness, impact resistance, installation standards, and building consent considerations.

1. Does Shower Glass Need to Comply with the NZ Building Code?

Yes.

Under the NZ Building Code (Clause F2 – Hazardous Building Materials), all shower glass must use safety glazing materials to reduce the risk of injury.

Any glass installed in bathrooms, especially within shower enclosures, must meet recognised safety standards.

2. What Type of Glass Is Required for Shower Units?

Shower enclosures in New Zealand must use:

• Toughened safety glass (most common)

• Or laminated safety glass (in some applications)

Standard float glass is not permitted.

When toughened glass breaks, it shatters into small blunt fragments rather than dangerous shards.

Most residential shower units use:

• 8mm toughened safety glass

• 10mm glass for premium frameless systems

All panels must comply with relevant NZ glazing standards.

If you are considering compliant systems, view our Shower Units range here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/shower-units/category/list

3. Minimum Glass Thickness for Shower Screens

While the Building Code does not always specify exact thickness, industry practice and engineering standards require:

• 6mm minimum for framed shower screens

• 8mm or 10mm for frameless or semi-frameless systems

Frameless shower units typically use thicker glass to ensure structural stability.

Glass must be properly edge-finished and free of defects.

4. Impact and Human Safety Requirements

Shower glass must withstand human impact.

Glass installed in “critical locations” (such as bathrooms and areas within 1500mm of floor level) must comply with impact safety standards.

This ensures that if someone slips in the shower, the glass will not cause severe injury.

Improperly installed or uncertified glass can fail inspection and create liability risks.

5. Fixings and Hardware Compliance

It is not only the glass that must comply.

Shower hinges, clamps, channels, and fixings must:

• Be corrosion-resistant

• Be suitable for wet environments

• Support the weight of the glass panel

• Be installed according to manufacturer specifications

Improper hardware installation is one of the most common causes of shower glass failure.

6. Waterproofing and Installation Standards

Under NZ Building Code Clause E3 (Internal Moisture), bathroom installations must prevent water penetration.

Shower units must:

• Be installed over compliant waterproofing systems

• Use appropriate seals

• Be properly aligned to prevent leakage

Incorrect installation can cause structural damage behind walls and floors.

7. Do You Need Building Consent for Shower Units?

In most standard bathroom renovations, replacing a shower unit does not require building consent.

However, consent may be required if:

• Structural elements are altered

• Waterproofing systems are modified significantly

• Plumbing layout is changed

Always confirm with your local council or licensed building practitioner.

8. Frameless vs Framed Shower Units

Both are allowed under NZ regulations if compliant.

Frameless shower units:

• Modern appearance

• Typically 8–10mm toughened glass

• Minimal visual obstruction

Framed shower units:

• Often more cost-effective

• 6mm safety glass common

• Additional structural support from framing

Compliance depends on safety glass certification and proper installation.

9. Common Compliance Issues with Shower Glass

• Use of non-safety glass

• Glass thickness below recommended standard

• Poor hinge or clamp installation

• Inadequate waterproofing

• Lack of documentation

Choosing certified products reduces risk.

10. Choosing a Compliant Shower Unit in NZ

When selecting a shower unit, ensure:

• Certified toughened safety glass

• Proper glass thickness

• Corrosion-resistant hardware

• Professional installation

• Compliance with NZ Building Code

If you need advice on selecting the right system, contact our team here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/contact

FAQs About Shower Glass Regulations NZ

Q1: Is toughened glass required for showers in NZ?
Yes. Safety glazing is mandatory in shower enclosures.

Q2: What thickness glass is used for frameless showers?
Usually 8mm or 10mm toughened safety glass.

Q3: Do I need building consent to replace my shower?
Usually no, unless structural or waterproofing systems are altered.

Q4: Can laminated glass be used in shower units?
Yes, provided it meets safety glazing requirements.

Final Thoughts

Shower glass in New Zealand must comply with strict safety glazing and moisture protection requirements. Using certified toughened glass, compliant hardware, and proper installation ensures safety and long-term durability.

Before installation, confirm:

• Safety glazing compliance

• Proper glass thickness

• Suitable hardware

• Waterproofing integrity

• Whether building consent is required

Choosing compliant systems protects your home and ensures peace of mind.

If you are installing a glass balustrade in New Zealand, whether for a deck, balcony, or stairway, it must comply with the New Zealand Building Code. Glass balustrades are popular for their modern appearance and unobstructed views, but they are strictly regulated to ensure safety and structural performance.

This guide explains the key glass balustrade regulations in NZ, including height requirements, gap limits, structural loading, safety glass standards, and building consent requirements.

1. When Is a Balustrade Required in NZ?

Under the New Zealand Building Code Clause F4 (Safety from Falling), a barrier is required when there is a fall of 1 metre or more.

This applies to:

• Decks

• Balconies

• Landings

• Stairs

• Mezzanine floors

If the drop is 1 metre or greater, a compliant balustrade must be installed.

2. Minimum Height Requirements for Glass Balustrades

The required height depends on the location.

Residential decks and balconies:

• Minimum height: 1000mm

Stairways:

• Minimum height: 900mm (measured vertically from the stair nosing)

For multi-unit or commercial buildings, higher requirements may apply.

Height is measured from finished floor level on the inside of the balustrade.

3. Maximum Gap Requirements (100mm Rule)

To prevent children from slipping through, openings must not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through.

This applies to:

• Gaps between vertical elements

• Space between glass panels

• Gap between bottom of glass and floor level

In most residential situations:

• Maximum opening allowed: 100mm

This is one of the most common compliance failures during inspection.

4. Structural Load Requirements

Glass balustrades must meet structural load requirements under the Building Code.

Minimum line load requirement:

• 0.75 kN per metre (residential)

In some situations, higher loads may apply depending on building classification.

The system must be engineered and installed according to manufacturer specifications. Simply using thick glass is not enough — the fixing system must also comply.

5. Glass Type and Safety Standards

Glass balustrades in NZ must use safety glazing that complies with relevant standards such as NZS 4223 and structural glass requirements.

Typically required:

• Toughened safety glass

• Often 10mm or 12mm thick (depending on span and system)

• Properly edge-finished

• Installed with compliant spigots, clamps, or channel systems

Frameless systems must be specifically designed for structural performance.

If you are considering compliant systems, view our Glass Balustrade range here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/glass-balustrade-495/category/list

6. Frameless vs Semi-Frameless Glass Balustrades

Both frameless and semi-frameless glass balustrades are allowed in NZ, provided they meet structural and safety requirements.

Frameless systems:

• 12mm toughened glass

• Minimal visual obstruction

• Modern architectural look

Semi-frameless systems:

• Glass panels supported by posts

• Often more cost-effective

• Easier to engineer for some applications

Compliance depends on installation and engineering, not design style.

7. Do You Need Building Consent?

In most cases, installing a new glass balustrade requires building consent.

You may need consent if:

• The balustrade protects a fall of 1 metre or more

• It is part of a new deck construction

• It alters structural elements

Auckland Council and other councils require:

• Building consent approval

• Inspection after installation

Always confirm with your local council or licensed building practitioner.

8. Common Reasons Glass Balustrades Fail Inspection

• Height below 1000mm

• Gaps exceeding 100mm

• Incorrect glass thickness

• Non-compliant fixing hardware

• Lack of engineering documentation

• Improper installation

Choosing a certified system reduces risk of rework and delays.

9. Wind Load Considerations in Coastal Areas

In coastal regions such as Auckland, wind loads can be significant.

Glass balustrade systems must:

• Be engineered for local wind zones

• Use compliant fixing methods

• Meet structural performance requirements

Improper installation can cause compliance failure even if the materials themselves are compliant.

10. Choosing a Compliant Glass Balustrade in NZ

When selecting a system, ensure:

• Certified safety glass

• Engineered structural system

• Compliant hardware

• Professional installation

• Documentation for council approval

If you need assistance selecting a compliant system, contact our team here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/contact

FAQs About Glass Balustrade Regulations NZ

Q1: What is the minimum height for a glass balustrade in NZ?
1000mm for residential decks and balconies, 900mm for stairs.

Q2: What is the maximum gap allowed?
Openings must not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through.

Q3: Can frameless glass meet NZ regulations?
Yes, if engineered and installed according to structural requirements.

Q4: Do I need building consent?
In most cases, yes — especially where fall protection is required.

Final Thoughts

Glass balustrades in New Zealand must comply with strict height, gap, structural load, and safety glazing requirements. Proper planning and selecting a compliant system ensures safety, smooth council approval, and long-term durability.

Before installation, confirm:

• Height compliance (1000mm)

• Gap limits (100mm)

• Structural load performance (0.75 kN/m)

• Safety glass certification

• Building consent requirements

A compliant system protects both your property and the people who use it.

If you're planning to install glass pool fencing in Auckland, it's essential to understand the current New Zealand safety regulations. Pool barriers are strictly regulated under national law to prevent drowning and ensure child safety.

This guide explains the key glass pool fencing requirements in Auckland, including height, gap limits, gate rules, building consent, and compliance standards.

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1. What Law Governs Pool Fencing in New Zealand?

Pool fencing in Auckland is regulated under:

• Building Act 2004

• Building Code Clause F9 (Means of Restricting Access to Residential Pools)

• The Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016

All residential pools deeper than 400mm must have a compliant barrier.

This applies to:

• In-ground pools

• Above-ground pools

• Spa pools (unless lockable cover compliant)

• Temporary pools

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2. Minimum Height Requirements for Glass Pool Fencing

In Auckland and throughout New Zealand:

• The minimum height of pool fencing must be 1.2 metres (1200mm).

• Height is measured from finished ground level outside the pool area.

Important:
There must be no climbable objects within 1.2 metres of the outside of the fence.

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3. Maximum Gaps and Spacing Rules

To prevent children from squeezing through, strict spacing rules apply.

Glass panels:

• No gap greater than 100mm between panels.

• Gap between the bottom of the glass and ground must not exceed 100mm.

Vertical elements (if used):

• Openings must not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through.

These requirements are critical for compliance inspection.

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4. Glass Requirements – What Type of Glass Is Allowed?

Glass pool fencing must use safety glazing that complies with NZ standards.

Typically required:

• Toughened safety glass

• Minimum 10mm or 12mm thick (depending on span)

• Must comply with NZS 4223 and relevant structural loading standards

All glass panels must be securely fixed using certified spigots, clamps, or channel systems.

If you're considering compliant systems, view our Glass Pool Fencing range here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/glass-pool-fencing/category/list

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5. Pool Gate Requirements

Pool gates are one of the most common reasons for failed inspections.

Requirements include:

• Must open outward (away from pool)

• Must be self-closing

• Must be self-latching

• Latch must be at least 1500mm above ground OR inaccessible to small children

Regular maintenance is required to ensure gates close automatically.

See compliant Glass Gate Systems here:
https://grandglass.co.nz/product/category/glass-gate-system

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6. Do You Need Building Consent in Auckland?

In most cases, installing a new pool fence in Auckland requires building consent.

Auckland Council requires:

• Building consent application

• Final inspection after installation

• Mandatory pool barrier inspections every 3 years

Failure to comply may result in fines.

Always confirm requirements with Auckland Council or a licensed building practitioner.

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7. Wind Load and Structural Compliance

Auckland's coastal conditions mean wind loads must be considered.

Glass pool fencing systems must:

• Be structurally engineered

• Meet load resistance standards

• Be installed according to manufacturer specifications

Improper installation can cause compliance failure even if materials are compliant.

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8. Frameless vs Semi-Frameless Glass Pool Fencing

Both are allowed under NZ regulations if compliant.

Frameless:

• Clean, modern look

• 12mm toughened glass

• Spigot or channel system

Semi-frameless:

• Uses posts between panels

• Often more cost-effective

The key factor is compliance, not design style.

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9. Common Reasons Pool Fences Fail Inspection in Auckland

• Gate does not self-close

• Latch too low

• Gaps larger than 100mm

• Climbable objects near fence

• Fence height below 1200mm

• Incorrect glass thickness

Pre-inspection checks can save time and rework costs.

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10. Choosing a Compliant Glass Pool Fence in Auckland

When selecting a system, ensure:

• Certified safety glass

• Compliant hardware

• Professional installation

• Documentation for council approval

If you're unsure which system suits your property, get in touch:
https://grandglass.co.nz/contact

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FAQs About Glass Pool Fencing in Auckland

Q1: What is the minimum height for glass pool fencing in Auckland?
1200mm from finished ground level.

Q2: What is the maximum gap allowed?
No more than 100mm.

Q3: Does frameless glass meet Auckland regulations?
Yes, if it meets structural and safety glazing standards.

Q4: Do spa pools need fencing?
If not fitted with an approved lockable cover, yes.

Q5: How often are pool fences inspected?
Auckland Council requires inspection every 3 years.

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Final Thoughts

Glass pool fencing in Auckland must meet strict safety regulations designed to protect children and comply with national building laws.

Before installation, confirm:

• Height compliance (1200mm)

• Gap limits (100mm)

• Certified safety glass

• Compliant gate hardware

• Building consent requirements

Choosing the right system ensures safety, avoids fines, and guarantees smooth council approval.