Shower Heads & Slides

Featuring the best shower heads in New Zealand

Shower heads are stylish and functional bathroom features that are crucial to an enjoyable daily showering experience. The best shower heads can transform your time in the shower from a mundane routine into something sensationally soothing. While there are many types of shower heads on the market in New Zealand, ArchiPro features only the very best from trusted and reputable suppliers. They are an important part of a wider range of high-quality bathroom tapware solutions that you can consider to rejuvenate your space.

Types of shower heads and slides

Single handheld shower head

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.

Combination/dual shower heads

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.

Shower jets

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.

Rain shower heads

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.

Shower rose

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.

Shower slides

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.

Standard shower head installations

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.

Shower head materials

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.

How to choose the right shower head for your bathroom

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. 

Other tapware fixtures to consider

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.