Yes — SmartBlock™ blinds are available with motorised operation, making them ideal for media rooms, high windows, or anyone wanting a clean, chain-free look
Manual chain control is also available for a more cost-effective option, or the chain-less option where you raise and lower the blind by hand using the sleek, discrete handle secured to the blind's bottom rail. If you decide not to motorise
For motorised SmartBlock™ blinds, the minimum width is 610mm (minimum drop 305mm). This ensures smooth performance while keeping the system’s sealed blackout side tracks working correctly
Many customers choose motorisation for convenience, creating their own electric blackout blinds with side tracks – a premium option for achieving effortless, gap-free darkness
What else should I know about motorised SmartBlock™ blackout blinds?
Motorised SmartBlock™ blinds offer premium convenience, perfect for high or hard-to-reach windows, media rooms, or anyone wanting a clean, chain-free look. They use the same reliable motor system as our Honeycomb blinds, meaning you can control both products from the same remote – or choose separate remotes for different rooms
Setup & limits:
Your upper and lower blind stop positions are pre-programmed at the factory based on your blind’s measurements
You can adjust these limits yourself if needed
Control options:
Remote control – operate multiple blinds individually or together via RF technology (radio frequency)
AutoShade™ Wi-Fi hub – connect your SmartBlock™ and Honeycomb blinds to your smart home. Control blinds via your smartphone (Apple or Android) or voice assistants like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple Home
Automation – set schedules so blinds open and close automatically, even when you’re not home
Included & optional extras:
Each motorised blind comes with a charger cable (included in price)
Required extra:
5-channel remote, add $82 per remote required (more info re remotes)
Optional extras:
USB Repeater for larger homes or offices, add $75
Charger extension cord (2m), add $10
AutoShade™ Wi-Fi hub for smart home integration, add $350
How long do the batteries in motorised SmartBlock™ blackout blinds last between charges?
On average, the built-in lithium-ion batteries will last around 6–8 months between charges when used twice daily (one raise and one lower)
As a simple rule of thumb, we recommend recharging your blinds twice a year — each time daylight saving begins and ends
Actual battery life will depend on the size of your blind (larger blinds draw more power) and how often you use it. With normal daily operation, most customers find charging to be a very low-maintenance task
What’s the difference between chain-free, motorised, and chain-driven SmartBlock™ blackout blinds?
SmartBlock™ blackout blinds are available in three control options — chain-driven, chain-free (spring-loaded), and motorised. Each option has distinct advantages, depending on your window placement, budget, and preferences. Here's how they compare:
The most popular and cost-effective choice
Ideal for DIY installation and retrofitting
Includes a child safety clip, but maybe not the best option for young children's bedrooms
A practical choice for standard-sized, easily accessible windows
Features a clean, chain-free appearance with no visible control chains
Safer for homes with young children or pets
Operated by using the handle secured to the bottom rail to raise or lower the blind
Best suited to windows within easy reach
A minimalist option that suits modern interiors, bedrooms, and nurseries
Offers the highest level of convenience with remote-controlled operation
Perfect for large or hard-to-reach windows or rooms where daily manual adjustment isn’t practical
Powered by a motor with rechargeable battery — no electrical wiring required
Professional installation recommended, but confident DIYers can definitely manage as well
We’re here to help. Whether you're after a sleek chain-free look, a smart motorised setup, or a simple chain option, we can guide you to the right choice based on your window size, usage, and room type
What should I consider when choosing the chain-free (non-motorised) option for SmartBlock™ blackout blinds?
SmartBlock™ blinds are available in a chain-free option — a clean, modern choice for those wanting a blackout blind with no dangling control chains. Before selecting this option, the main thing to consider is how easily the blind will be reached and operated day to day
Chain-free SmartBlock™ blinds are best suited to windows where the person using the blind can comfortably reach both the top and bottom of the window near the centre of the opening. The blind is operated by gently pulling the handle on the bottom rail to raise or lower it, so reach and ease of use matter more here than with chain-driven or motorised blinds
If the window is tall, set high on the wall, or likely to be awkward to reach, a control pole, chain control, or motorisation may be the better option
The blind can still be stopped at different heights, but unlike a chain-driven or motorised blind, fine positioning can take a little more practice. The upside is a very clean finish with no hanging chains or cords, making it a tidy and child-safe manual option for bedrooms, nurseries, and other living spaces
I can't reach the top of my window — can I still use SmartBlock™ blinds?
Absolutely. If your windows are high or hard to reach, you can upgrade your SmartBlock™ blinds with a motorised operation option—perfect for tall windows, stairwells, or accessibility needs. Control your blackout blinds at the touch of a button for effortless light control and privacy. Select the 'motorisation' option when requesting a quote
Do chain-free SmartBlock™ blackout blinds need a control pole?
Chain-free SmartBlock™ blackout blinds can be operated without a pole, provided you can comfortably reach the top and bottom of the window to raise and lower the blind by hand
For higher or harder-to-reach windows, an optional control pole can be added to make operation easier. A 915mm pole is available, or you can choose a longer 1500mm pole if needed. Poles are $30 each
The pole connects to the handle already fitted to the blind, so it is simply there as an optional aid where extra reach is helpful. If you would like a pole, just email that when placing your order and let us know the quantity needed
If you are choosing the chain-free option, it is best suited to windows where the blind can still be operated comfortably, or where adding a pole will make day-to-day use practical. If you have extra budget, motorising these is also worth considering
Is SmartBlock™ suitable for DIY installation, and how easy is it to install?
Yes — SmartBlock™ blackout blinds are custom-made to be DIY-friendly. You’ll receive a complete kit tailored to your exact window dimensions, with clear step-by-step measuring and installation instructions
Installation is straightforward for anyone comfortable with a tape measure, drill, and level. Plus, remote support is available if you need help along the way
For inside fit systems, the cassette, side channels, and bottom channel are pre-drilled with mounting holes, and fixing screws are included. For outside fit installs, the side channels are fixed using brackets. All screws and brackets required for both install types are provided
Prefer not to DIY? We also offer a professional SERVICE install option in many major centres across New Zealand
What’s the difference between the DIY and SERVICE options for SmartBlock™ blinds?
With SmartBlock™, you can choose between two flexible options:
DIY (Do It Yourself): You measure, order, and install the blinds yourself using our step-by-step guides and support. It’s a great way to save money while still getting a premium, custom-made blackout system. Perfect for confident renovators or those handy with a tape measure
SERVICE (We do it for you): Our professional Blinds Online installers handle everything—from precise check-measuring to assembly and installation. This option is ideal if you want peace of mind, a guaranteed fit, or prefer to have a pro take care of it
Whichever path you choose, our NZ-based support team is here to guide you through every step. And with both options, you’ll enjoy the same high-quality SmartBlock™ complete blackout blinds, made to your exact specs
Are SmartBlock™ blinds good for shift workers or day sleepers?
Yes. SmartBlock™ blinds are engineered for 360° light sealing with cassette and side channels, eliminating daylight leaks completely. If you work nights or take naps during the day, this system helps create a pitch-black environment that supports restful sleep and better recovery — much better than standard blackout blinds with light bleed in the corners
Are SmartBlock™ blackout blinds truly 100% blackout?
Yes — SmartBlock™ is specifically engineered to deliver total blackout performance. With a fully enclosed design – featuring a cassette headbox, sealed side channels, and a bottom rail closure – SmartBlock™ acts as a sealed blackout blind that eliminates light gaps around the edges
This means no “halo” of light, unlike standard blinds. Perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms, shift workers, or anyone wanting true blackout blinds with no gaps