New Zealand's leading manufacturer of architectural LED lighting solutions
Switch Lighting is where innovation meets illumination. With a passion for technological advancement, Switch Lighting has been revolutionising the industry since its inception in 2009.
We understand the profound impact that lighting can have on ambience, functionality, and energy efficiency. Our team of dedicated professionals work passionately to develop and deliver state-of-the-art lighting products that surpass industry standards, to transform spaces and elevate experiences. By combining exceptional design and superior quality, we empower our customers to create inspiring atmospheres that enhance productivity, comfort, and aesthetics. Whether that be in homes, offices, hotels, hospitality, retail, schools, super yachts or world renowned cruise ships.
Switch Lighting is New Zealand’s leading LED luminaire manufacturer – and your trusted partner for innovative lighting solutions that illuminate your world and enhance the environments you live in.
Meet the team
Gerard Woods
Managing Director
Gerard is responsible for the overall strategy and vision for Switch Lighting. Gerard is also actively involved in the Lighting Council of NZ where he sits on the Executive Committee. He represents LCNZ on AS/NZ standards committee EL041 which is responsible for updating and maintaining safety standards for general lighting. When he's not working, you will find Gerard enjoying one of his outdoor pursuits: kite-surfing, boating, paddle-boarding, snowboarding or adventure riding on his KTM990 bike.
Julie Halsey
Executive Assistant to MD
Julie is the Executive Assistant to Gerard and provides administrative support to the rest of the team as required. She has a young child so all her spare time is spent resting. Kidding. She has no spare time!
Pierre Van Heerden
Finance Manager
Pierre brings with him a wealth of expertise in both management and financial accounting, with a career spanning over two decades across New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland.
Outside of work, Pierre is a family man with four children (three boys and a girl) who certainly keep him on his toes. On weekends, you’ll often find him spending time outdoors with them — whether it’s hunting, fishing, or mountain biking.
Jon Maunsell
Technical Engineer
Jon has been designing and creating LED lighting products since 2003. Over this time he has built up a very comprehensive knowledge about how to create the best LED products. When not developing the latest innovations, Jon can be found spending time with his daughter and partner or out on the trails on his mountain bike.
Natalie Woods
Lighting Designer
Natalie is a Lighting Designer based at the Switch Lighting head office in Nelson. With a background in interior design and a passion for creating spaces where people can truly thrive, Natalie guides clients through the lighting selection process, offering both technical support and a creative touch. With a science degree and artistic mindset, Natalie brings a unique blend of creativity and precision to every project. Outside of work, she loves to cook and host dinner parties. Natalie enjoys the art of bringing people together in beautifully designed spaces.
Contact Natalie on 022 307 5875
Johnny Huynen
Central NZ
Lighting Consultant
Johnny is based in the Wellington region. He is responsible for the Central NZ area running from Taranaki right down to Nelson/Marlborough. In his spare time Johnny is an avid sports fan and an absolute fishing nut who will get out on the water as often as possible to get his fix. #JohnnyTightLines
Contact Johnny on 027 226 6007
Pip Lane
Christchurch Lighting Design & Showroom Consultant
Pip is our Lighting Design & Showroom Consultant in Christchurch, bringing over 25 years of interior design experience. She partners with design professionals and clients to create thoughtful lighting solutions for residential and commercial spaces. Outside work, she enjoys the outdoors and time with family and friends.
Jack Leigh
Auckland & Upper North Island Lighting Consultant
Wholesale & Trade
Jack looks after our Auckland and Upper North Island wholesale customers. Originally from Cardiff, Wales, Jack started his career as a licensed electrician, later moving into sales, then transitioning in electrical automation, where he specialised in lighting and electrical control solutions. Outside work, Jack is passionate about rugby, F45 workouts, hiking, live music, and meeting new people while soaking in all that New Zealand has to offer!
Contact Jack on 027 319 7991
Letty Emmanuel
Central North Island
Lighting Consultant
Letty has a vast background in commercial and industrial lighting and is passionate about residential lighting design. Outside of work, she really enjoys fashion, sewing and designing her own kids' range of clothing.
Contact Letty on 027 950 4007
Kennedi Wright
Lighting Consultant
Central NZ Wholesale
Kennedi has extensive experience across commercial and residential lighting projects, with a strong understanding of practical lighting solutions for trade customers.
Outside work, she enjoys the gym, spending time with her partner, and her two dogs, Koda and Sadie.
Contact Kennedi on 027 283 6459
Lindsay Shapcott
Inventory Manager
Lindsay manages our inbound supply chain and warehouse. Monitoring, purchasing and maintaining current inventory levels; tracking orders; and investigating and resolving any supply chain challenges.
Contact Lindsay on (03) 928 0526
Ellie Jepson
Inventory Administrator
Ellie supports the Supply Chain team in monitoring inventory levels and replenishing stock as needed. She manages our warranty and claims process. Outside of work, Ellie is a mum of 3 kids and 2 dogs. She enjoys spending time with her family, dog walking, photography and having a laugh with her friends.
Bonnie Gibson
Customer Services Administrator
Here at Switch, Bonnie processes all incoming orders and supports all inbound customer enquiries. Outside of work, Bonnie really enjoys bringing friends and family together over a home cooked meal or getting out on adventures with her partner and their 3 dogs.
Jason Kemp
LED Technician
Jason is engaged in Research and Development, specialising in photometrics, conformance and prototype testing. Jason is broadly qualified from professional chef to IT and electrical. He is available to field any technical inquiries. In his spare time Jason likes to travel and enjoys skiing whenever he can.
Contact the Technical Helpdesk on +64 3 928 0039
or email [email protected]