Automatic gates are one of the most common upgrades Queenstown homeowners ask us about. Done right, they add real security, convenience, and kerb appeal. Done wrong, they become an ongoing headache. Here's what you need to know before you commit.
The Three Main Gate Types
Most automatic gate systems fall into one of three categories. The right choice depends on your driveway layout, available space, and what the gate needs to look like.
- Sliding gates run on a track along the fence line and need space beside the opening for the gate to slide into. They work well on sloped driveways because there's no swinging movement. Generally the most reliable and lowest maintenance option for residential driveways.
- Swing gates (single or double leaf) suit wider entrances and have a more traditional look. They need clear space in front to open — worth checking carefully on sloped or tight driveways. Double swing gates are popular for grander entrances.
- Bi-fold gates fold back on themselves, requiring less clearance than a standard swing gate. A good option where space is tight but a swing aesthetic is preferred.
What's Included in a Full Install
When we install an automatic gate system, we handle everything end to end:
- The gate itself — fabricated in steel, aluminium, or timber infill depending on your preference
- The motor unit — sized to the gate weight and usage frequency
- Remote controls — typically two per install, more available on request
- Safety sensors — these stop and reverse the gate if something is in the way
- Posts and any associated fencing panels
- Full commissioning and testing before we leave the site
By the time we pack up and go, the system is working and you're driving through it. No coming back to finish things off.
What Drives the Price
Gate pricing varies depending on a few key factors. We don't publish fixed prices because every install is genuinely different, but here's what moves the number:
- Gate size and material — a small powder-coated aluminium slider costs significantly less than a large custom steel double swing gate
- Motor quality — we use commercial-grade motors that last. Cheap motors are a false economy on something you use multiple times a day
- Site conditions — sloped driveways, rocky ground, or tight access can add time and cost
- Power supply — if there's no existing power near the gate, running a cable adds to the job
- Intercom or keypad — optional extras, but useful if you need access control beyond a remote
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not accounting for driveway slope. A sliding gate on a slope needs a level track, which requires groundwork. Swing gates on slopes have their own challenges. Always worth discussing before committing to a gate type.
- Undersizing the motor. If your gate is heavy or gets constant use, you need the right motor. An undersized unit wears out fast.
- Forgetting about power. Automatic gates need electricity. If your switchboard is far from the gate, factor in the cable run.
- No manual override. Every system should have one for power cuts. We always include it — worth confirming with any installer you get a quote from.
Intercom and Keypad Options
If you want visitors to buzz in rather than waiting for you to open the gate remotely, an intercom system is worth considering. We can integrate video intercoms that connect to your phone, letting you see and speak to visitors and open the gate from anywhere. Keypads are useful for tradies or regular visitors who need access without a remote.
What to Ask When Getting a Quote
- Is the motor commercial or residential grade, and what's the warranty?
- Does the quote include safety sensors?
- Is there a manual override for power cuts?
- Who do I call if there's a fault after install?
We've been installing gate systems across Queenstown and Central Otago since 2013. Give Nate a call on 021 228 6735 — he'll come out for a free look at your site and talk you through what suits it best.
Thinking about an automatic gate?
Free, no-obligation site visits across Queenstown and Central Otago.