Elevating Outdoor Spaces: The Versatility of Aluminium Slat Fencing

Privacy fencing isn’t just about marking boundaries; it’s about making outdoor spaces both stylish and functional. Done right, it becomes an architectural feature that enhances outdoor areas, creates dedicated spaces, and increases the usability of decks, patios, and gardens.  

Increasingly, aluminium fencing is the material of choice, with aluminium fence panels used to create both vertical and horizontal slat fences. This modern solution brings with it a wealth of advantages, from durability and aesthetics to flexibility in design and application. 

Where to Use Vertical and Horizontal Slat Fencing 

Slat fencing is incredibly versatile and is widely used in residential settings, including stand-alone homes, retirement villages, and multi-unit developments. Whether you're defining a backyard, screening a patio, or enclosing a deck, aluminium fencing provides the ideal balance of privacy and openness.  

Urban Group’s Fresno fencing system is frequently specified for: 

• Screening between dwellings in high-density housing 

• Apartment courtyards and balconies, where full-height walls aren’t practical 

• Front yard and entry screening to provide privacy while maintaining street appeal 

• Hiding utilities like bins, air conditioning units, water tanks, and clotheslines 

• Architectural features, such as fencing extensions, pergolas, or carports 

• Enhancing planting areas as a backdrop for planting or vertical gardens 
   

The mix of vertical and horizontal slats allows for creative combinations that elevate the look and function of outdoor spaces. 

Strong, Stylish and Functional 

The broad appeal of aluminium fence panels lies in their ability to provide privacy while still allowing for airflow and light in outdoor living spaces. Adjusting the gap between slats gives you control over privacy levels and visual openness. Urban Group’s Fresno fencing allows for 3 gap sizes to provide specifiers and installers with the flexibility to get this right for each project. Some designs combine solid fencing below with slats above for a layered effect that balances privacy, light and air flow. 

Pairing complementary aluminium gates with slat fencing ensures a cohesive look for entrance ways or screening around utility areas. Planting around slat fencing can also soften fence lines and add a natural contrast to the clean lines of the metal. 

Built to Last: The Benefits of Aluminium 

One of the key benefits of using metal fences like aluminium is structural strength. High-grade aluminium fencing offers the rigidity required for safety and security, while remaining lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Whether you're installing into soil, concrete, or decking, choosing the right mounting method is crucial to long-term stability. 

In New Zealand’s varied climate, durability matters. Powder-coated finishes on fence panels provide an added layer of protection against UV, rain, and coastal conditions. Architectural-grade coatings such as Dulux’s Pro-Texture range offer excellent resistance to surface scratches, scuffing, and fingerprints, while providing a modern, tactile finish. 

With a wide selection of colours and finishes available, aluminium fencing can easily be customised to match surrounding materials and design features. Unlike timber, it won’t warp, rot, or need regular repainting making it a low-maintenance, long-life solution for fences and gates NZ-wide. 

Know the Rules: Building Code and Local Regulations 

Before installing your fence, it’s important to understand local regulations. In New Zealand, building consent is generally not required for fences under 2 metres high unless they support extra loads like retaining walls or heavy gates. Consent is required for: 

• Fences over 2 metres 

• Fencing that acts as a safety barrier (e.g. around pools) 

• Boundary fences that include retaining walls over 1.5 metres 
   

Local councils may also have their own District Plan rules regarding height restrictions, setbacks, and visibility near driveways, especially for front fences. If your fence sits on a boundary, the Fencing Act 1978 outlines neighbour consultation and cost-sharing responsibilities. Always check with your local council and consult a professional if unsure. 

The Final Word 

Whether you're after sleek street appeal, smart screening, or enhanced privacy, aluminium slat fencing offers an ideal blend of modern aesthetics, lasting durability, and practical function. With minimal maintenance and maximum design flexibility, aluminium is the smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their fences and gates NZ-wide. 

If you’d like to discuss a project with one of our experts, get in touch today to find out how Fresno slat fencing could provide the answer for your privacy fence needs.