Our vision
“To be New Zealand's most loved and trusted lighting specialist.”
Innovation Great value Specialist advice

Lighting New Zealand since 1974

For more than five decades, Lighting Direct has helped New Zealanders find the right lighting for their homes, renovations and building projects. Today, we are proud to be one of New Zealand’s most trusted lighting specialists, helping customers create homes they love with quality lighting, great value and expert advice.

Our story began in Auckland in 1974, when Bill and Penny Fulford established Keldene Industries in an empty factory on O'Rourke Street, Onehunga. With $9,000 in startup capital and a determination to build something of their own, they began manufacturing and assembling light fittings and lampshades while raising their children, Dean and Kelly.

What started as a small New Zealand lighting manufacturer has grown into Lighting Direct NZ — a nationwide lighting specialist with lighting stores across New Zealand and a dedicated online lighting store serving customers throughout the country.

Today, 52 years later, that same focus remains: helping New Zealanders create homes they love through great lighting, great value and specialist advice.

Whether you are renovating, building a new home or simply updating a room, Lighting Direct makes it easier to find lighting that combines style and function. Our range includes pendant lights, ceiling lights, wall lights, downlights, track lighting, outdoor lights, table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling fans and light bulbs, with options designed for modern New Zealand homes and lifestyles.

From choosing a statement pendant for a kitchen or dining room to finding practical downlights, outdoor lighting or everyday lamps, our experienced team is here to help you make the right choice.

Think lighting. Think Lighting Direct — New Zealand’s lighting specialist since 1974.

“Fifty years ago my parents mortgaged everything they had to open a factory with thirty staff and a dream. Every store we open, and every light we sell, still carries that same commitment: real value, genuine expertise, and a warm welcome to every New Zealand home.”

Dean Fulford— Chief Executive Officer, Lighting Direct

1974 — 2026

The Journey

Fifty-two years of Lighting New Zealand. A few of the moments that shaped who we are.

Lighting Direct 1974
1974

Keldene Industries is founded in an empty Onehunga factory with just $9,000 in startup capital.

1984

In survival mode after losing key customers, Bill reinvents the business as The Lighting Discounter, a cash and carry model that becomes a huge success.

Lighting Direct 1984
Lighting Direct 1992
1992

With a national footprint established, the business rebrands as Lighting Direct, moving from discount to genuine value add.

2004

Founder Bill Fulford is named New Zealand Retailer of the Year for Retail Consumer and Industrial Products.

Lighting Direct 2004
Lighting Direct 2011
2011

After the Christchurch earthquake, Lighting Direct is the first retailer to rebuild and reopen, with the largest lighting store in New Zealand.

2018

Dean Fulford is promoted to Chief Operating Officer, leading a new team to support stores nationwide.

Lighting Direct 2018
Lighting Direct 2020
2020

Lighting Direct closes its stores for six weeks during the COVID-19 lockdown, the first closure of its kind in the company's history.

2023

Lighting Direct launches a new brand identity and invests in a new point of sale, finance and CRM platform.

Lighting Direct 2023
Lighting Direct 2024
2024

Lighting Direct celebrates 50 years in business, a milestone marked together with founder Bill.

2025

A new store opens in Queenstown, extending the brand into the heart of the South Island.

Lighting Direct 2025
Lighting Direct 2026
2026

Lighting Direct launches a new online store, bringing the full range and specialist advice to customers nationwide.