A GOOD CAUSE

We have done several projects for Riding for the Disabled in the past.

NORTH SHORE RDA

This project came about as they have, in the past, had to cancel riding therapy sessions whenever it rained, which is disruptive to the riders and is a roadblock to their development.

Now that the roof is complete, they are seeing huge benefits in the Summer months. It is far more comfortable to work in the shade it provides, and they look forward to not cancelling riding once the rain returns. They decided to use a SmartShelter because the cost is much lower compared to a full building. Secondly, the disruption to their riding programmes was minimal as the construction was scheduled during the holidays.

The Coach and regular volunteers enjoy working under the roof in Summer. It’s far cooler, there’s always a gentle breeze, and, with their sprinkler system (used to dampen down the arena surface), it’s an ideal riding environment.

INSTALL DATE: 2023
SIZE: 32m wide x 55.7m long x 3m side height

Riding for the Disabled Horse Arena Roof

NEW PLYMOUTH RDA

President Kevin Nielsen says they are very happy with their SmartShelter, which has hugely improved conditions. It has made it so much better for riders, staff, and volunteers, and they have had a lot of good feedback. It is their only covered arena, and they also rent it out to local organizations.

They looked at other projects with SmartShelters and were impressed. They are located in a gully with natural bush around them. The installation had some challenges with drilling difficulties, but they found a solution with the SmartShelters team using plastic-type shears around the poles. The installation was done in the planned timeframe during the Christmas/New Year break, and it worked out well. Overall, they are very happy with the installation and product.

INSTALL DATE: 2009
SIZE: 26m wide x 46m long x 3m side height

DUNEDIN RDA

The horse arena at the Dunedin RDA is filled with a sand-rubber mix, and it features a roof with lighting, making it perfect for Dunedin’s challenging weather conditions. It also features fenced sides, covered yards, and toilets.

They use the facility and also rent it out, with all proceeds going towards running their classes for people experiencing disabilities.

INSTALL DATE: 2018
SIZE: 30m wide x 50m long x 3.5m side height

TAURANGA RDA

The SmartShelter at the RDA in Tauranga is their secondary arena, and General Manager Elisha Olds says there is no noise when it rains compared to their other steel roof-covered arena.

It is very nice in summer and winter. The open sides make it airy and light.

INSTALL DATE: 2019
SIZE: 20m wide x 40m long x 3m side height

WHY SMARTSHELTERS ARE THE SMARTER CHOICE

100+ YEARS OF EXPERTISE

As New Zealand’s first shelter manufacturer, we bring over a century of experience. Our in-depth industry knowledge ensures you receive personalised support and the perfect shelter tailored to your needs.

PROUDLY NEW ZEALAND MADE

Built in Auckland to withstand New Zealand’s extreme weather conditions, our canopy shelters deliver trusted performance with local support and a fast turnaround. We’re here for the long term—offering quick repairs, expert service, and quality that can’t be beaten.

INDUSTRY-LEADING 12-YEAR WARRANTY

Our 12-year warranty is the longest in the market and covers both the container cover and frame against manufacturing defects. We use only premium materials to ensure durability and reliability under New Zealand conditions, giving you peace of mind that our container shade structures deliver long-term value.

ENGINEERED TO AUS/NZ 1170:2:2021

SmartShelters meet the latest engineering and industry standards, ensuring compliance with building codes and health and safety requirements. Designed for your exact location, whether in the far north or the deep south, our roofs for shipping container buildings provide quality shelter that you can depend on.

DURASTEEL - HIGH STRENGTH STEEL FRAMEWORK

We don’t cut corners on strength. Our main canopy hoop arches are built with premium C450-grade structural galvanised steel—square or rectangular profile—with a wall thickness of no less than 4mm. It’s engineered for maximum durability, with quality assurance that outperforms imported alternatives.

SMARTSHIELD® – THE WORLD’S BEST STRUCTURAL FABRIC

Exclusively available through SmartShelters, our SMARTSHIELD® structural fabric is the strongest and most robust shelter fabric on the New Zealand market. It’s 100% PVC-free and built for long-term performance in New Zealand’s toughest conditions. Don’t be misled by thickness alone—this premium-grade ripstop membrane is engineered for real strength, not just weight.

SMART RANGE – FLEXIBLE SIZES & CUSTOMISATION

SmartShelters offers the widest range of container shelters and canopies in New Zealand — with spans from 6m to 45m wide, any length, and multiple height options. As the only NZ manufacturer offering this level of quality and customisation for container domes, we make it easy to tailor your shelter to your exact requirements. Choose from an unmatched range of add-ons and upgrades to create a structure that grows with your needs.