Shaderunner® Retractable Shades NZ – Large Span Outdoor Shade Systems
Shaderunner® Retractable Shade Systems
Custom-designed retractable shade system tailored to your space.
✔ Manual or motorised operation with Somfy® automation options
✔ Provides excellent UV protection and glare reduction
✔ Smooth sliding system using marine-grade stainless steel wires and pulleys
✔ Can be neatly retracted when not in use for open sky and sunlight
✔ Designed for both residential and large-scale commercial projects
Free measure & quote • Expert advice
Why choose Sunguard?
✔ Reliable components – we use high quality hardware that will last 10+ years.
✔ Professional installation – SiteWise-certified, with careful, tidy workmanship.
✔ Peace of mind – every job backed by SunGuard warranties.
✔ Transparent pricing – clear quotes upfront with no surprises.
✔ For homes and businesses – we install roller blinds in homes, offices, schools, and commercial spaces across New Zealand.
✔ Trusted specialists – rated 4.9 stars from 730+ Google reviews.
Visit our showroom
Come and see our products in person and chat with our team about the best solution for your space.
Unit G, 11 Piermark Drive, Rosedale, Auckland
✔ Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 4:30pm
Saturday: By appointment
Shaderunner retractable shades:
Enjoy Total Control Over Your Outdoor Space
From strong UV to coastal wind and changing weather, Auckland outdoor spaces need shading that can adapt. Shaderunner® retractable shades are built to handle it all—providing flexible coverage for large areas while maintaining a clean, architectural look.
Custom-designed and installed from Auckland across New Zealand, each system is tailored to suit your space, whether it’s a residential deck, courtyard, or a large commercial project. With marine-grade components and the ability to span wide areas with minimal structure, Shaderunner® is ideal for exposed or open environments.
Shade when you need it, sun when you don’t
Extend for full protection or retract completely to enjoy open skies and natural warmth.
Stay cooler and more comfortable
Reduce heat, glare, and UV exposure while maintaining airflow and light.
Cover large areas with fewer supports
Designed to span wide spaces without cluttering your area with posts or structures.
Built for NZ conditions
Marine-grade hardware and high-performance fabrics handle sun, wind, and coastal environments.
Effortless operation
Smooth-glide system with manual cord or optional motorised control at the touch of a button.
Modern architectural finish
Clean lines and flowing fabric panels create a premium, design-led look.
Flexible design for any project
Install between walls, posts, pergolas, or custom frames to suit your space.
Low maintenance, long-term value
Durable materials and replaceable panels ensure years of reliable performance.
Shaderunner retractable shades models:
THE SHADERUNNER® PRO
The latest PRO model comes with customizable fittings in all sections to offer more versatility. The Sail fabric panels are fitted into the cross profiles individually, which makes it possible to replace them if needed, and also to choose several different colours as an option. The sturdy aluminium extruded support profiles make it possible to cover a large area up to 7m wide with just one system. If the area is wider, extra systems can be installed to provide additional coverage. High strength 316 stainless steel running wires and tension fittings enable large extensions, typically up to 12m as a single system. Subject to site conditions and structural design, the Pro 30 model can accommodate even larger spans. Additionally, it is possible to use twin Shaderunner® fabrics on the same wires, which can be stacked at both ends and extended to the centre.
THE SHADERUNNER® PRO SPECIFICATIONS:
Width: 7m maximum*
Extension: Up to 12.0m as a single system using the PRO 15 model
Extensions over 12.0m available using the PRO 30 model*
Fabric drop: 250-500mm typical stowed fabric depth (custom designed to suit site conditions)
Running Wires: 2 x Stainless Steel Wires as standard (additional wires where required)
Operation: Manual operation as standard with endless cord system & cleat
Motorised option with remote*
Motor type: RTS motor in powder coated slimline headbox
Sensors: Optional wind, sun or rain sensors
THE SHADERUNNER® CLASSIC
The Classic is the original Shaderunner®, and it has been successful on the market for over 20 years. The fabric is made in a single piece and has fixed pulley positions, while sturdy aluminium support profiles enable it to cover large areas of up to 6.5m wide with a single system. If you need to cover a wider area, additional systems can be added for further coverage. High-strength 316 stainless steel wires and tension fittings allow for large extensions, usually up to 14 meters as a single system. Depending on the site conditions and structural design, it may be possible to have even larger extensions. Additionally, twin Shaderunner® fabrics can also be used on the same wires, with the ability to stack at both ends and extend to the centre
THE SHADERUNNER® CLASSIC SPECIFICATIONS:
Width: 6.5m maximum
Extension: up to 14.0m as a single system
Fabric Drop: 250-500mm typical stowed fabric depth (custom designed to suit site conditions)
Running Wires: 2 x Stainless Steel Wires as standard
(additional wires where required)
Operation: Manual operation as standard with endless cord system & cleat
Motorised option with remote* (Conditions apply)
Motor Type: Somfy RTS motor in powder coated slimline headbox
Sensors: Optional Somfy wind, sun or rain sensors
Wind Resistance: 25 knots (or to suit engineer design of support structure)
Beaufort Scale: 6 Strong Breeze
THE SHADERUNNER® TRAX
The Shaderunner® TRAX is made from highly durable components, which include custom-designed aluminium tracks and framework, stainless steel roller bearing wheels, and marine-grade fittings.
With the use of strong aluminium extruded support profiles, the system can cover a wide span of up to 7 meters with just one system. If the area is wider, additional systems can be linked together to provide coverage.
There are two versions of the Shaderunner® Trax available – Pergo (aluminium modular framed structure) and Mono (side mount to existing structure beams).
THE SHADERUNNER® TRAX ‘Pergo’ model offers a variety of bolt-together aluminium joiner connectors, giving you the flexibility to choose the best frame configuration for your site conditions. The lightweight yet sturdy aluminium posts, beams, and running tracks allow for easy installation using bolt-together techniques. These aluminium components can be powder coated in a range of colours to match your surroundings. The structure works well with SunGuard exterior drop down blinds.
TRAX PERGO SPECIFICATIONS:
Width: 7m maximum, with a single system, larger widths achieved by linking structures together
Extension: Up to 7m
Fabric Drop: 250-500mm typical stowed fabric depth (custom designed to suit site conditions)
Framework details: 120x120mm Aluminium Posts & Beams
120x80mm Aluminium Running Tracks
Aluminium Coupling Joints & Bases
Stainless Steel ball bearing runner wheels
Operation: Manual operation as standard with endless cord system & cleat
Motorised option with remote
Motor type: RTS motor in powder coated slimline headbox
Sensors: Optional wind, sun or rain sensors
THE SHADERUNNER® TRAX ‘Mono’ model is supported by 40x40mm aluminium tracks. These tracks can be attached to the inside faces of existing steel or timber framed support structures, with the use of an aluminium angle.
The maximum width between the side tracks is 4 metres, and the maximum extension is determined by the dimensions of the existing side structures.
The Shaderunner® Trax ‘Mono’ can be manually operated with an endless cord system and cleat, or can be motorized and Somfy automation package.
Shaderunner retractable shades’ operation
The Shaderunner is available in both manual and motorised versions, with roller bearing pulleys and marine-grade stainless steel wires ensuring a smooth operation. The manual system features an infinite cord design that allows the fabric to be extended and retracted easily and quickly, with the cord then secured and tied off at the horncleat. In cases where the Shaderunner® is sloped or angled or for larger systems, a manual winch can be added to assist with operation, and the winch handle can be detached and stored away when not in use.
For the ultimate convenience, the Shaderunner® can be automated using a Somfy RTS motor, which is housed in a slimline powder-coated headbox. With the Somfy remote control, the Shaderunner can be effortlessly extended or retracted with a simple touch of a button.
Shaderunner® Retractable Shades Fabrics
The Shaderunner® system’s built tough for Kiwi conditions. It’s built to handle a lot of use and survive whatever the weather throws at it. This simple yet effective design lets you control how much shade you want, so you get the most out of your outdoor areas.
You’ve got a choice of fabrics. Vistaweave mesh blocks out 95% of sunlight, giving solid shade when you need it. Or go for waterproof PVC if you need extra weather protection. Both fabrics are resistant to mould, glare, and UV rays — exactly what you need to survive the harsh New Zealand sun.
Vistaweave 95 is a strong, woven mesh, perfect for outdoor use in things like blinds, awnings, and even marine environments. It blocks out the sun while providing a solid, textured look. Vistaweave’s been a go-to here in New Zealand and Australia for over 40 years, known for its reliability and durability.
Key features:
Reduces heat transmission
Improves air-conditioning efficiencies
Provides UVR protection
Reduces glare in direct sunlight
Provides privacy without compromising the view
Allows moderate flow of fresh air
Mildew and salt water resistant
Supported with a five year warranty
Environmentally friendly
Actual product or fabric colour may vary from the images shown on the website. Every monitor or mobile display has a different capability to display colors, and every individual may see these colors differently. In addition, lighting conditions at the time the photo was taken can also affect an image’s color. It is highly recommended to physically check the colours in the swatches available for viewing prior to placing an order.
Shaderunner retractable shades’ installation types
The Shaderunner® can be set up on a pre-existing or custom-made pergola, or between walls, fascias, or standalone posts. Constructed using only the most durable 316 stainless steel fittings and marine grade Ronstan ball bearing pulleys, the Shaderunner® Retractable Sail provides years of hassle-free shading with minimal maintenance.
TYPICAL CONFIGURATIONS
Posts to posts
For a two-wire system, two posts are installed at both ends of the area that needs to be covered. Stainless steel cross wires are then placed horizontally between the posts for the control cord. If more than two support wires are required, a supporting beam can be installed between the two end posts to attach the additional support wires. This application is suitable for: Shaderunner® Pro, Shaderunner® Classic
Fascia/building to posts
Custom-engineered brackets are used for building/fascia fixings, with the sail support wires spanning over to the self-supporting posts. This application is suitable for: Shaderunner® Pro, Shaderunner® Classic
Wall/fascia/building to wall/fascia/building
It is possible to create shade in confined areas by attaching fixings on both sides. Custom-engineered brackets are used for the building fixings, with the sail support wires spanning between them. This application is suitable for: Shaderunner® Pro, Shaderunner® Classic
Existing frames and pergolas
If there are already steel or timber frames and pergolas in place, the Shaderunner® can be easily installed either within or under the structure beams. This is a straightforward way to upgrade and provide shade to areas that were previously unusable. This application is suitable for: Shaderunner® Pro, Shaderunner® Classic, Shaderunner® Trax Mono
Difficult areas
In situations where access is limited and traditional bored pier footings are not possible, or when base fixings are required on decks, balconies, or rooftops, the perfect solution is the self-standing Aluminium Pergo frame structure. It can be designed with various footing options or attached to existing concrete or beams in certain cases, making it possible to install this structure in situations where other options are not achievable.
Shaderunner retractable shades’ warranty and use
WARRANTY
Built to last, the Shaderunner® is offers many years of worry-free operation. To ensure customer satisfaction and peace of mind, we provide the following warranties:
5-year warranty on components and workmanship
5 to 10-year warranty on fabrics
10-year warranty on fabric stitching or welding
5-year warranty on Somfy motors
RESIDENTIAL USE
The Shaderunner® Retractable Shade System’s perfect for all sorts of outdoor spots – whether it’s a deck, patio, poolside, or whatever. It’ll fit right in with any style, from modern Kiwi homes to the more traditional ones, with a range of fabrics and colours to make sure it suits your place.
COMMERCIAL USE
The Shaderunner® is a top choice for commercial retractable shade due to its exceptional precision and attention to detail during construction. It is made from durable components and thoroughly tested fabrics, making it a robust and reliable solution for large-scale retractable shading. With its unique design requiring support only at both ends, the Shaderunner® can span large areas with minimal need for intermediate support structures or columns, making it an ideal choice for commercial and community applications such as Aquatic Centres, Bowling Clubs, Sports Facilities, Hospitality Venues with Alfresco Dining areas, Beer Gardens, Wineries, etc.
Shaderunner – frequently asked questions
How does a Shaderunner system work?
The system runs on tensioned stainless steel wires with fabric panels that glide smoothly using pulleys. It can be extended or retracted using a cord or motorised control.
Can it be motorised?
Yes—Shaderunner systems can be operated manually or upgraded with Somfy® motorisation and remote control for convenience.
How large can it span?
A single system can typically span up to around 7m wide and 12m in extension, with larger areas covered using multiple systems.
Is it better than a standard retractable awning or shade sail?
Shaderunner systems are ideal for larger or more complex spaces. They offer greater flexibility than fixed shade sails and can cover wider areas than many awnings.
Is it waterproof?
Both breathable mesh (for airflow) and waterproof fabric options are available depending on your needs.
Can it handle wind and weather?
Yes—when properly installed. The system uses marine-grade stainless steel components and is designed for durability in outdoor conditions.
Where can Shaderunner shades be installed?
They’re ideal for patios, decks, courtyards, pools, cafes, restaurants, schools, and large commercial spaces.
Are the fabric panels replaceable?
Yes—on the Pro model, individual panels can be replaced or customised, making maintenance easier and extending lifespan.
Do I need a structure to install it?
Shaderunner systems are typically installed between walls, posts, or pergolas, but custom structures can also be designed.
How easy is it to operate?
Very easy—the system uses a smooth-glide pulley system and can be operated manually with a cord or automatically via remote control.
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