Outdoor signage isn’t just about looking sharp — it’s about getting noticed, being clear, and holding up against the elements. Whether you’re a café on the main street or a trades business out in the regions, the right signage makes a difference.
But it’s easy to get it wrong. From hard-to-read fonts to materials that fade fast in New Zealand’s sun, the small stuff adds up. This guide runs through a few common mistakes businesses make, so you can avoid them — and make sure your signage actually does what it’s meant to.
Thinking of upgrading your outdoor signage? Talk to a team that knows what works locally and what lasts in New Zealand’s conditions.
1. Signage That’s Hard to Read
If people can’t read your sign in a few seconds, it’s not doing its job.
This happens a lot with:
- Thin or overly decorative fonts
- Poor colour contrast
- Crammed-up layouts with too much going on
Tip: Keep it clean. Bold fonts. High contrast. Leave some space. Your sign should speak clearly, even from a passing car.
2. Too Much Information
Trying to fit every detail — phone number, email, what you do, and when — into one sign? Not a good move.
Why doesn’t it work?
- People won’t read it all
- It dilutes the core message
- It just looks busy
What works instead? A simple message, one call to action, and your branding is clear. That’s all you really need at first glance.
3. Wrong Size or Bad Placement
Even the best-designed sign is useless if no one can see it properly.
Check for:
- Obstructions like trees, posts, or awnings
- Signs placed too low or too high
- Text too small for the viewing distance
What to do: Before you order, go to the spot. Look at it from the street, from the footpath, from the car. That’ll tell you what size and layout make sense.
4. Not Built for NZ Conditions
This one’s huge. NZ sun can bleach colours fast, and wind, rain, or salty coastal air can wreck cheaper materials in no time.
Things to watch out for:
- Vinyl peeling or bubbling
- Faded graphics within a few months
- Frames rusting out
Fix it by using: UV-rated materials, marine-grade fixings, and weatherproof coatings — especially if your signage is exposed year-round.
5. Off-Brand or Outdated Design
Your signage should line up with the rest of your branding. Mismatched colours, old logos, or unclear styling can confuse people, or make you look less professional than you actually are.
How to keep it sharp:
- Use your current brand colours and logo
- Match fonts and styling with your online and print materials
- Get fresh signage when you rebrand — don’t patch over old stuff
Final Thoughts
Outdoor signage is one of your most visible assets. If it’s done right, it pulls people in, gives a clear message, and builds trust before anyone even walks in the door.
But if it’s messy, hard to read, or doesn’t last, it’s just wasted space.
Need signage that holds up in the real world? We design, print, and install signage that works — from the street, from the car, and in New Zealand’s wild weather.
FAQs
1. How big should outdoor signage be?
Depends on the viewing distance. As a rough guide, go for at least 25–30 mm letter height for every metre of distance.
2. What’s the best outdoor signage material for New Zealand conditions?
UV-stable vinyl, aluminium composite panels, and marine-grade hardware are your best bets — especially in coastal or high-sun areas.
3. Can I design my sign myself?
You can — but if it’s going to be permanent or exposed outdoors, getting professional help saves time, money, and stress down the track.
4. Do I need local council approval for signage in NZ?
Sometimes, yes. Large, illuminated, or roadside signs might need a permit. It depends on your local council’s rules.
5. How long should signage last?
Good outdoor signage should last 5–7 years, minimum. Some materials last longer with the right care and placement.
