Shade solutions
Versatile outdoor living, made to measure.
Retractable shade systems give you the option of opening your space to the stars or protecting it from the hot Hawke’s Bay sun.
Designed to complement your home or business, these systems are a stylish way to control light, shade, and comfort outdoors. At Douglas, every solution is fully customised, measured, and fabricated in our Hastings workshop. With a wide range of high-performance fabrics and frame options available, we can fit shade solutions to almost any space – whether that’s a deck, courtyard, pergola, or commercial dining area.
Wave Sail® Retractable Shade
A fully customisable Wave Sail® by Douglas fits perfectly over your outdoor living area in a series of beautiful billows.
- Designed and fabricated locally in Hawke’s Bay by the Douglas team
- Can be attached to your home, an existing pergola, or a freestanding frame
- Adds style and a unique architectural element to outdoor living areas
- Fabrics available in a range of contemporary colours with long life in NZ conditions
Retractable Shade for Existing Pergolas
We can also design and fabricate a retractable pergola shade system that integrates with the structure you already have.
- Be fixed in place for permanent shade and UV protection, or
- Operate on a roller system so you can retract them when you want open air and sunshine.
Talk to our team about creating a custom solution.
Browse fabrics & colours in our showroom
Choosing the right fabric is about more than shade. The performance and style of your outdoor living space depends on UV resistance, durability, and colour choice.
- Browse a wide range of high-performance UV-rated fabrics
- Compare colours, patterns, and textures to match your décor
- Talk to our award-winning team about the best options for your setting
- Explore samples of custom frames and powder-coating colours
It’s a chance to touch, compare and get a feel for the right option at our Douglas showroom, 413 Queen Street West, Hastings.
Looking for a retractable roof, instead of shade?
If you’re considering something more weather tight than shade fabric, Douglas also fabricates and installs Retractable Roof Systems – offering all-weather retractable PVC protection at the push of a button.
- Great for large spaces & commercial settings
- 100% Waterproof
- In-built LED lighting
Discover more on our dedicated Retractable Roofs page.
FAQs
SPECS, AESTHETICS & COMFORT
What sizes and spans are available?
Because it is custom-made from fabric, a bespoke retractable shade can span whatever your space requires. Almost any size can be achieved with a tailored design.
What colours are available?
You can choose from a wide range of contemporary fabric colours, plus Dulux powder coat options for any aluminium frames. This allows you to select colours that integrate with your home or outdoor setting.
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How much does a retractable shade solution cost?
Every project is custom-designed, so costs vary depending on the size of the structure, type of shade system, and installation requirements. For a ballpark figure or to explore options, contact our team or visit our Hastings showroom.
Are retractable shade systems waterproof?
Shade sails and fabric pergola covers provide excellent sun protection but are not fully waterproof. They are designed to create cooler, shaded areas while still allowing airflow. If full rain protection is important, we may recommend one of our roof systems instead.
What fabrics are available for retractable shade solutions?
Our shade fabrics are UV-resistant, mildew- and fire-resistant, and designed to last in Hawke’s Bay conditions. They reduce heat and block UV rays while maintaining a light, airy feel underneath. Browse the full range of fabric samples in our Hastings showroom.
What does the space feel like under a retractable shade system?
Wave Sail® systems create a striking aesthetic with their soft billows of fabric, diffusing sunlight into a gentle glow. This helps create a cool, comfortable outdoor space without blocking all natural light.
The effect will differ depending on the type and colour of shade fabric selected, samples of which you can browse in our showroom, and our team will be happy to advise.
How long will a retractable shade solution last?
With quality fabrics and aluminium framing, your shade solution can last many years. Fabric life is typically 8–12 years depending on exposure, while the frame will last significantly longer.
How do I clean and care for a retractable shade system?
- Regularly brush off leaves, dirt, and debris.
- Hose down with clean water.
- Use mild detergent and a soft brush for stubborn marks.
- Always ensure the fabric is fully dry before retracting.
We’ll provide care and user guides at installation.
PROCESS & INSTALLATION
How long does installation take?
Installation usually takes 1–3 days depending on the size and site.
Can you work to tight deadlines?
Yes. If you have an event or seasonal need, let us know and we’ll do our best to work within your timeframe.
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Do you charge for consultations or quotes?
Initial consultations are typically free of charge. If a project requires detailed design work or complex assessments, we’ll advise you upfront if any fees apply.
Who installs your retractable shade systems?
Our Douglas team manages all installations. Installers are professional, friendly, and well-known across Hawke’s Bay. You’ll be told in advance who is coming, and you can meet the team on our website.
Can you reskin or repair a shade solution?
Yes. We can replace worn fabric or adjust fittings to extend the life of your system. This is often a cost-effective way to refresh your outdoor area.
FURTHER INFO
What warranties are included?
Douglas provides a 2-year workmanship warranty. Shade fabrics typically carry a 10-year warranty for UV resistance, and powder coating on frames is covered for at least 10 years. Full warranty documentation is provided at installation.
What are the environmental credentials?
Retractable shade systems are designed for longevity, reducing waste and the need for replacement. Frames are made from recyclable aluminium, and many fabric suppliers operate under stringent EU environmental and health regulations for the full product life cycle.
As it stands, any outdoor fabrics used in roof systems, shades, or awnings are not currently recyclable in New Zealand at end-of-life (this applies to our products and anyone else’s). Our suppliers are actively working on long-term solutions.
Where our products really add value is in the longevity of the product – with Douglas you are buying a long-term, durable solution.
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Where are retractable shade systems made?
Wave Sail® and our other custom shade solutions are designed and fabricated right here in Hawke’s Bay by Douglas. Pergola covers are also custom-made by our team, with high-performance fabrics sourced internationally.
Have you won awards for outdoor living projects?
Yes. Douglas is a multi-award-winning Hawke’s Bay company, recognised nationally and internationally for excellence in outdoor living projects, including shade solutions.
How we work
At Douglas we produce quality solutions for your project. Find out more about our process and how we work.
YOU CONTACT US
WE QUOTE
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Explore your options
Ask a Question
Tell us about your outdoor living area and let’s explore your options. You name it, we’d love to customise and craft it. Get in touch.
Craig Bridgman – Hawke’s Bay
“Great Service…. Steve was great to deal with on the initial consult and quote, we were kept informed through the whole process, and the guys who installed were amazing. Polite, kept things tidy and informative about what they were doing. I would highly recommend Douglas to anyone and would definitely use them again.”
Rob, Havelock North (abridged)
