From product launch to real-world experience
Beyond features, finishes, and awards, real-world performance matters most. Window Makers’ Joe Ravenhall shares first-hand insights into why Yale Unity Slim has become a trusted smart security solution for New Zealand homes.
“It’s about having something that’s secure, simple, and integrates well into everyday life.”
Joe Ravenhall, Sales Manager, Window Makers
It’s been a busy couple of years for Yale Unity® Slim Smart Lock in New Zealand — from its launch as a lock designed specifically for local conditions and narrow aluminium door profiles, through to highlighting its design flexibility, finish options, handle choices, and industry recognition.
But beyond product features and awards, what matters most is how a lock performs once it’s on the door and in daily use.
To understand that real-world experience, Yale spoke with Joe Ravenhall, Sales Manager at Window Makers, to hear directly from a joinery manufacturer working with Unity Slim across residential projects. His insights reflect how the lock performs in practice — from manufacturing and installation through to homeowner use — offering a first-hand perspective on why Unity Slim has become a trusted choice for Kiwi homes.
Smart homes are setting new expectations
As smart home technology becomes more common in New Zealand, homeowners’ expectations around security are evolving. As Joe explains, as technologies like smart lighting, cameras, and alarms become standard in New Zealand homes, smart locks are increasingly seen as a natural next step.
This shift is being driven by both homeowners and builders, with a growing emphasis on solutions that are easy to use, reliable, and suited to how people live and build today.
“The biggest thing people want is convenience and control. Homeowners like the idea of not needing keys and being able to manage access through their phone, and builders want something that’s reliable and easy for clients to use once they move in.”
Security leads the decision
While features like keyless entry and app control are often what homeowners notice first, security remains the primary reason people choose smart locks. Across homeowner conversations and purchasing trends, security consistently emerges as the key driver behind the move to smart locks.
Yale Unity Slim is designed to deliver that reassurance by combining smart functionality with strong mechanical security. App notifications, remote locking, and access management give homeowners greater visibility and control, whether they’re at home or away.
“People like being able to create codes for family members or unlock the door from their phone. It’s one of those things that becomes part of daily life very quickly,” Joe says.
Not just a front door solution
Although Yale Unity Slim is commonly specified on front entry doors, Window Makers also sees its value across the rest of the home. With multiple backset options available, Unity Slim can be used just as comfortably on back doors and other secondary external doors.
This allows homeowners to achieve a consistent level of security across all entry points, rather than treating secondary doors as an afterthought.
What is multipoint locking?
By lifting the handle, multipoint locking secures the door at the main lock while engaging bolts at the head and sill, providing added security.
From a joinery perspective, this is especially important for larger or architectural doors.
“It helps pull the door in tight and compress the seals properly, which is important for overall door performance,” Joe explains.
Designed in NZ for local conditions
Unity Slim’s clean, slim design is well-suited to homes where both the look and functionality are important.
“It’s a stylish minimal look with a really well-designed app experience. It works well with modern entry doors and still gives you the benefits of multipoint locking.”
With its IP55 rating, Yale Unity Slim is designed to perform reliably in New Zealand’s harsh and exposed environments, giving confidence it will stand up over time.
Easy to manufacture and support
For Window Makers, Unity Slim integrates seamlessly into industry-standard locking systems, making it straightforward to manufacture and install.
Local powder coating, assembly, and supply add further value, allowing finishes to be matched accurately while supporting shorter lead times and easier after-sales support.
Smart security, now the standard
Today, around 70% of Window Makers’ entry door hardware includes digital locks, highlighting how quickly smart security has become mainstream.
For Window Makers, Yale Unity Slim delivers a smart locking solution that goes beyond convenience — providing strong security, flexible application across multiple doors, and lasting peace of mind for everyday living.
Where can I buy it?
If you're building a new home, reach out to your builder, architect, or window and door supplier today!
If you're looking to replace an existing lock, please contact your local Locksmith!
For specification details of our new Unity® Slim Smart Lock
