The business was birthed in 1984 and has evolved over time, operating under several names before becoming The Garden Lighting Company over the past 25 years.
We create outdoor lighting that enhances gardens, landscapes, and outdoor living spaces while respecting the natural environment and the atmosphere of the night.
This page outlines the principles, policies, and professional standards that guide how we work with our clients, industry partners, and wider community.
Our goal is simple:
To design beautiful outdoor lighting that is durable, responsible, and trustworthy.
Our Lighting Philosophy
We believe great garden lighting should enhance the beauty and features of a landscape in a subtle and natural way… without glare or overpowering the environment.
“If you can’t see the stars, the lighting is too bright.”
Good lighting should complement a garden and extend the enjoyment of outdoor spaces while preserving the peaceful atmosphere of the night.
Human Expertise and Responsible Use of AI
All lighting designs created by The Garden Lighting Company are produced by experienced human lighting designers.
We may use modern digital tools such as AI-assisted software for marketing content, website writing, or image enhancement, but these tools are used only as support tools.
All lighting design decisions, product selections, and installation recommendations are made by experienced professionals. We do not use AI to design lighting installations or make technical lighting decisions.
Sustainable Lighting and Product Integrity
- The vast majority of fittings used are New Zealand made (typically 90%+)
- Lighting systems are designed for long service life
- Fittings are repairable and adjustable rather than disposable
- Most fittings allow lamps to be replaced
- Designs are centered around energy efficiency
- Lighting is designed to minimize unnecessary light pollution
Electrical Safety and Installation Standards
- All lighting installations follow New Zealand electrical safety standards
- Licensed electricians undertake all mains electrical connections
- The majority of systems are low-voltage outdoor lighting
- Installations are designed for long-term reliability and safety
Honest Advice and Customer Transparency
- No high-pressure sales tactics
- Honest advice, even if it reduces the size of a project
- Clear, well-scoped pricing
- Designing lighting systems that suit the client’s goals and budget
After installation, we often undertake night visits to check the lighting and make adjustments where required, ensuring the finished result meets our clients’ expectations and enhances their outdoor space as intended.
Our Ethical Guiding Principles
- Is it the truth?
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Warranty and Long-Term Service
The majority of fittings we install are New Zealand-made Moonscape low-voltage fittings, all of which carry a 10-year warranty.
- Ongoing service and maintenance is available
- Spare parts and replacement lamps are readily available
- Systems are designed to be repairable and upgradeable over time
Privacy and Client Data Protection
- We never sell or share client data
- Client information is stored securely
- Project photographs may be used for marketing purposes, but no owner names or address details are disclosed
- All photographs of projects and installations shown are of lighting systems we have installed, and in many cases designed or directly contributed to
Working with Industry Professionals
- Architects
- Landscape architects
- Landscape designers
- Landscape contractors
- Builders
- Electricians
While working closely with these professionals, we remain independent in our lighting design and product recommendations.
Leadership and Accountability
The Garden Lighting Company is led by a small leadership group with oversight across design quality, installation standards, customer care, and ethical practice.
Barry Sluiters – Managing Director
Barry oversees lighting design standards, client experience, and overall quality assurance.
Trevor Allen – Director
Trevor contributes to governance, and strategic direction of the company.
Micah Alpe – Partner
Micah is a shareholder and plays an active role in the ongoing leadership, delivery, and development of the business.
Why Clients Trust The Garden Lighting Company
- Founded in 1984 with over 40 years in business
- Over 4,000 lighting systems designed, installed, or serviced
- Award-winning lighting designs including Ellerslie and Auckland Flower Shows
- 90%+ New Zealand-made fittings
- Moonscape low-voltage fittings with 10-year warranty
- Specialist garden lighting expertise
- Low-voltage lighting systems designed for safety and efficiency
- Experience: 40+ years in business and thousands of installations
- Expertise: Specialist garden lighting design and installation
- Authority: Industry awards and long-standing reputation
- Trust: Transparent practices, NZ-made products, and long warranties