Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Lights in NZ: Choosing IP Ratings, Styles, and Placement

When it comes to creating a welcoming home exterior, outdoor lights play a bigger role than most people realise. The right lighting not only improves safety and security, but also transforms your garden, patio, or driveway into a stylish and functional space.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of choosing outdoor lights in New Zealand, focusing on IP ratings, popular styles, and placement tips.

1. Understanding IP Ratings for Outdoor Lights

One of the first things to check when buying outdoor lights is the IP rating (Ingress Protection). This rating tells you how resistant a light is to dust and water – a key factor in New Zealand’s varied climate.

• IP44 – Splash-proof, suitable for covered outdoor areas such as porches.
• IP54 – Resistant to light rain and dust; good for walls under eaves.
• IP65 – Fully weatherproof, ideal for exposed walls, driveways, or garden areas.
• IP67 and above – Heavy-duty protection, perfect for ground lighting or coastal properties.

Tip: If you live in coastal NZ areas like Auckland’s North Shore or Wellington, go for at least IP65 to handle salty air and stronger weather conditions.

2. Styles of Outdoor Lights

Outdoor lighting is not just functional – it’s also a design feature that adds character to your home. Here are some of the most popular outdoor lighting styles:

• Outdoor Wall Lights – Great for entrances, garage doors, and patios. Available in modern, industrial, and traditional designs.
• Security Lights – Provide wide coverage and improve home security. Many models now come with LED technology and motion sensors.
• Pendant or Hanging Lights – Ideal for covered outdoor dining areas or decks, adding warmth and ambience.

👉 Tip: Combine different outdoor lighting styles for a layered effect – safety plus aesthetics.

3. Why Choose LED Outdoor Lights?

Most homeowners in NZ now prefer LED outdoor lights, and for good reason:

• Energy-efficient – Save up to 80% energy compared to traditional bulbs.
• Long lifespan – LEDs last much longer, reducing maintenance.
• Variety of colours – Choose warm white for ambience or cool white for security.
• Eco-friendly – Lower energy use means reduced carbon footprint.

4. Outdoor Lighting Inspiration for NZ Homes

At Eden Lighting, we stock a wide range of outdoor lights designed for New Zealand conditions – from sleek modern wall lights to durable bollards and garden spotlights. Whether you’re updating your front entrance, creating a relaxing patio, or adding security to your property, we have options to match your style and budget.

👉 Browse our collection of Outdoor Lights in NZ and find the perfect fit for your home.