Shower Heads & Slides

Single handheld models are the most popular type in New Zealand, commonly sold in sets with a detachable hose and holder, ready to mount to an existing fixture or a slide. They are versatile, flexible, and easy to use for kids and adults alike. A slide bar shower head combines a handheld head with an adjustable rail, allowing the spray height to be set for different users.

A combination of fixed and hand shower heads allows for maximum versatility. Their designs vary from traditional to contemporary, available in a range of finishes and styles. The kits usually feature all the necessary components for quick and easy installation and come complete with a hose and diverter mount. Double shower heads can pair a fixed head with a hand shower, giving users separate spray positions within the same system. A shower head set can combine fixed and handheld heads, with a diverter directing water between them.

For the most luxurious setup, you’ll want a shower with shower/body jets installed. This can direct jets of water at you for a massage-like experience.

Also known as waterfall shower heads, these cover a broad area with a rain-like stream. They can be fixed to the ceiling or the wall by an overhead shower arm. They extend out up to half a metre from the wall, making it possible to stand underneath and enjoy the stream in full.

A shower rose is a fixed head that often delivers water in a range of spray patterns and materials. Features such as water conservation and built-in filters can be beneficial, and size and shape can also vary. The latest shower head designs include options with different forms and finishes.

A shower slide, or riser rail, is an adjustable component of a shower system that accommodates different heights and mobility needs. Its sliding bracket on a vertical rail allows for customised shower head positioning. Available in a range of styles, a shower slide enhances flexibility and the overall showering experience.

In New Zealand, the type of installation will depend on your plumbing, preferences and space. Sometimes a ceiling-mounted showerhead is the only solution, but it can also be accompanied by several wall-mounted shower jets to enhance the experience. Typical types of installations include:

• Surface-mounted: Typically ceiling and wall-mounted
• Recessed Ceiling: The shower head is fixed into the ceiling for a waterfall effect.
• Handheld: Requires a flexible hose and mounting bracket to connect to an existing fixture. Options also include different kinds of wall-mounted slides.

While the majority in New Zealand are made from metal, it's also possible to find ceramic, composite, plastic - even glass versions. Others include:

• Brass: Strong, durable and resistant to corrosion and calcification
• Stainless steel: Boasts a quality similar to brass, on the higher-end side
• Zinc and zinc alloy are budget-friendly but also less durable than brass and steel.

Choosing the right shower head in New Zealand involves considering several factors to enhance your showering experience. First, think about the water pressure in your home and select a model that performs well under those conditions-low-flow shower heads are great for conserving water while still providing satisfactory pressure. The type of spray pattern is also important; whether you prefer a gentle rainfall effect, a focused jet, or adjustable settings to suit different preferences. Consider the installation process and whether you can do the installation yourself or require the service of a plumber. Durability and material quality are crucial, with materials like chrome, stainless steel, and brass offering longevity and resistance to corrosion. Additionally, eco-friendliness is becoming increasingly important, so look for water-efficient models that save water and reduce utility bills without compromising performance. Lastly, aesthetics should not be overlooked; choose a design and finish that complements your bathroom’s decor. 

If you’re doing a full bathroom renovation, you’ll no doubt need other tapware fixtures as part of your project. Basin taps and mixers, for example, are a pivotal complement to any bathroom basin area with many different options to choose from. If you have a bath, you’ll also need bath mixers and taps to set you up for those long relaxing soaks. With respect to the shower itself, shower mixers are a must which you may, or may not wish to match with your eventual choice of shower head.