Yes. Once properly inflated to the recommended PSI, FLATED products are designed for sustained motorway travel at legal NZ speed limits – see the Air-Topper FAQs below for full details.

Yes. Every FLATED product is tool-free and designed for one person to fit in minutes, so you can get on with the trip instead of the setup. Our installation videos walk through the exact steps for your product.

Around 10 minutes with an electric pump, or about 20 minutes using the included hand pump, depending on the product and PSI required.

It's highly unlikely. We use the same military-grade PVC drop-stitch material used in whitewater rafts and inflatable stand-up paddleboards, built to handle everyday New Zealand conditions.

Every FLATED product ships with a patch kit, so small leaks are an easy DIY fix – just follow our repair video. Replacement patch kits are also available; contact hello@flated.co.nz.

Air-Toppers are sized to your ute's tray length and width, so measure your bed dimensions first and check our vehicle fitment guide. You're welcome to email your measurements to hello@flated.co.nz for a second opinion.

FLATED products are covered by a two-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty against manufacturer defects. If something fails due to a fault, we'll arrange a replacement. This sits alongside your rights under the NZ Consumer Guarantees Act, which are never affected.

Pressure doesn't swing dramatically with heat or cold, but it's worth checking your PSI whenever the temperature shifts by more than around 10°C, to keep it in the recommended 5–8 PSI range.

Most FLATED products include a carry bag, hand pump, patch kit and instructions, plus any straps specific to that product. Check the instruction page for unboxing videos.

Yes. We stock electric pumps designed for FLATED products, and any high-pressure pump using the same Boston valve fitting will also work.

Use FLATED Inflatable Cleaner, or mild soap and water with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse well and let it dry fully before packing away.

We'd recommend hand washing instead. Automatic car wash brushes and high-pressure jets vary a lot and can damage the zippers or fabric over time.

It fits almost any 4-door vehicle, van, 4WD or UTV with a roof – it straps onto factory or aftermarket crossbars, or uses the included pass-through straps if you don't have a roof rack.

It depends on the model – check the Air-Carrier collection for the exact capacity of each size, from a compact option through to a large family-trip carrier.

Drop-stitch is thousands of internal threads connecting the top and bottom layers of the fabric, letting it inflate into a rigid, flat panel instead of a soft balloon shape. Read more on our technology page.

FLATED uses the same drop-stitch technology found in high-end inflatable paddleboards, so it's rock-solid once inflated but rolls down into a carry bag when you don't need it – lighter, easier to store, and fitted solo in minutes, unlike a bulky hard canopy.

Our products are built for New Zealand's conditions using high-grade PVC and weather-tight zippers. No inflatable product is 100% airtight forever, but the construction is designed to keep rain, dust and wind out during normal use.

The Air-Topper is built to keep your gear dry and dust-free. It features a protective rain skirt and an EVA bed seal to divert water away from your tray. While no canopy is 100% airtight, our high-grade PVC and weather-tight YKK zippers provide exceptional protection against the elements.

Absolutely. The Air-Topper has been extensively tested at speeds up to 130 km/h. When inflated to the recommended 5–8 PSI, the military-grade drop-stitch structure becomes incredibly rigid, ensuring it doesn't flutter or flap even on the open road.

Despite being inflatable, the Air-Topper is surprisingly strong. It can support up to 68 kg of static weight. With its integrated D-rings and carry handles, you can easily secure lightweight gear like kayaks, surfboards, or an Air-Carrier for your next adventure.

Installation is completely tool-free and takes less than 10 minutes. The canopy uses a secure system of heavy-duty cam straps and J-hooks that attach directly to your ute's existing bed rails or tie-down points. This “no-commitment” design means you can convert your ute from a work truck to a camper and back again in minutes.

Yes! We use the same military-grade PVC drop-stitch material found in white-water rafts and inflatable SUPs. It's designed to withstand UV exposure, impacts, and the rough conditions of off-road travel. If you do manage to snag it, every unit comes with an emergency patch kit for quick on-the-go repairs.

While no roof box is 100% waterproof, the Air-Carrier is built for the elements with 420D DWR-treated nylon canvas and weather-tight zippers. It's designed to keep your gear incredibly dry during those unpredictable NZ downpours, though we always recommend packing electronics in dry bags for ultimate peace of mind.

Not if you use our Air-RackPads, which are specifically designed to protect your vehicle's finish from scratches while providing a stable mounting surface. Because the Air-Carrier is lightweight and made of soft yet durable PVC, it's much gentler on your car than a heavy, rigid hard-shell box.

The Air-Carrier is designed for adventure and convenience. While it doesn't include a built-in lock, its greatest security feature is its portability — you can deflate it and take it inside your accommodation in minutes. For gear left on top, we recommend using secondary locking straps for added security during stops.

Yes! One of the best things about the FLATED Air-Carrier is its universal compatibility. It features an integrated strap system that allows it to be mounted on almost any 4-door vehicle, whether you have factory roof racks or not. It's the ultimate “no-rack-required” solution for family road trips.

The Air-Carrier is incredibly strong, using the same military-grade drop-stitch material as white-water rafts to maintain rock-hard rigidity. While it can handle significant loads, we recommend following your vehicle's specific roof load rating — usually between 50 kg and 75 kg for standard cars — to ensure a safe and smooth drive.

Thanks to its high-pressure, military-grade drop-stitch construction, the Air-Deck is incredibly rigid and can support over 225 kg. It's sturdy enough to handle two adults, kids, and even the dog without bowing or sagging, ensuring everyone gets a stable and comfortable night's sleep.

Absolutely! The Air-Deck is a raised platform that sits roughly 25 cm high, creating a massive “basement” for your gear. This allows you to slide storage totes, tools, and recovery gear underneath while keeping your sleeping area completely flat and clutter-free above the wheel wells.

Yes, we offer multiple sizes — including a 6' Cot, Mid-Size, and Full-Size models — to ensure a perfect fit for everything from a Toyota Hilux to a Sprinter van. Its rectangular design is engineered to sit securely over your wheel wells, effectively turning your vehicle bed into a king-sized sleeping space.

The Air-Deck is designed for convenience; it features a single valve that inflates the entire platform and legs in just minutes using the included dual-action hand pump. When the trip is over, it deflates and rolls up into a compact carry bag that fits easily on a garage shelf, freeing your vehicle for daily work tasks.

The Air-Deck is built with the same ultra-tough PVC used for whitewater rafts. It is resistant to UV, impacts, and heavy wear, making it perfect for the rugged conditions of the NZ backcountry. Plus, every unit includes a patch kit and a one-year warranty for total peace of mind on the road.

No drilling required for any FLATED product – everything clamps and straps onto existing points on your ute.

You can use a shop vac on "blow" mode to fill the bulk of the air volume quickly.

Push the stem down and twist to lock it open for deflating; twist it back and it pops up ready to inflate. See our valve instructions video for a walkthrough.

Typically 5–8 PSI depending on the product – check your manual for the exact figure for your model.

You can, so take care not to exceed the recommended 8 PSI maximum.

They're hand-tightened – no wrenches or tools needed.

Yes, a printed manual is included. We also have the video tutorials are on our website for most of the products. Full range of video tutorials available on FLATED YouTube channel

It takes a little practice – our packing videos on the instruction page show the fold sequence step by step.

Yes, plenty of customers leave theirs on year-round.

Run the pass-through straps through the open doors and buckle them inside the vehicle – no crossbars needed.

Most door seals close over the straps fine, though you may notice slightly more wind noise.

Yes – it's light enough for one person to lift and position without help.

No modification needed – our canopies use the existing tie-down points and bed rails already on your ute.

That's fine – our canopies are designed to clamp over standard plastic rail caps.

Measure from the canopy edge to the bed rail edge on both sides and adjust until they match.

Yes, a bit of moisture during installation won't cause any damage.

Yes – always check and re-tighten after the first few kilometres of any trip.

We don't recommend it – stick to a hand pump or one of our electric pumps.

Tighten the valve core using the valve wrench included with your pump kit.

No – the Air-Topper isn't rated to carry the weight of a rooftop tent.

Make sure it's clean and completely dry, then deflate it, roll it loosely to avoid sharp creases, and store it in the carry bag somewhere cool, dry and out of direct sun.

With proper care and regular UV protection, FLATED products can last for many years of NZ sun, rain and road use.

UV rays can degrade PVC over time, which is why we recommend applying a UV protectant regularly, especially over a Kiwi summer.

Every few months as a rule of thumb, or more often if it's parked in direct sun for long periods.

Small punctures are an easy DIY fix with the included patch kit. Larger tears may need a professional PVC repair – get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.

The vinyl is built to handle cold conditions, but avoid folding the windows sharply when it's freezing outside.

Use a zipper cleaner or lubricant, available in our accessories range, to keep them running smoothly.

Don't force it – clean it first, then gently work it back and forth until it frees up.

Yes, just contact hello@flated.co.nz for a replacement part.

Some fading can happen after years in the sun, but regular UV protectant slows this down significantly.

PVC naturally resists mould, but always make sure it's completely dry before packing it away to be safe.

We wouldn't recommend it – paint tends to crack and peel off the flexible PVC surface.

A gentle cleaner or a small amount of rubbing alcohol usually lifts it off without any trouble.

It holds up well – the give in the inflated structure absorbs hail impacts rather than denting like a hard shell would.

The material is tough and generally holds up well to pets, though as with any surface, sharp claws deserve a bit of care.

They give you extra secure tie-down points on the roof for kayaks, boards or an Air-Carrier – additional D-rings can be purchased separately.

Extreme, sustained heat can affect the PVC adhesive over time, so a cooler, climate-stable spot is better for long-term storage.

Spray the inflated product with soapy water and look for bubbles forming at the leak point.

Yes, the included patch kit comes with PVC adhesive ready to use.

No – don't put liquid tyre sealants like “Slime” inside the air chambers.

We ship from our Auckland warehouse to destinations throughout New Zealand, with most orders arriving within 2–4 business days of dispatch and bulk freight items taking 5–10 working days. We're also able to arrange shipping to a number of overseas destinations — contact our team to find out which countries we can currently supply.

At this stage we ship within New Zealand only.

Yes – collect from our Auckland showroom at 690 Great South Road, Penrose. Please allow 2–4 working days for us to prepare your order, and bring your email confirmation, the card used for payment, and matching photo ID.

Let us know within 14 days of receiving your order via our Contact Us form. We'll arrange collection and assessment, and organise a replacement once the fault is confirmed. Outside that 14-day window, faulty items are handled under warranty instead.

Notify us within 7 days of receiving your order via our Contact Us form, and we'll arrange collection, confirm the mix-up, and send the correct item out right away.

Contact us straight away via our Contact Us form so we can arrange collection and get a replacement sent out.

Yes – every return needs an RMA number from our team first. Fill out our Contact Us form and we'll send return instructions and address details by email.

If your order is a pre-order that hasn't shipped yet, you can cancel it for a full refund. Once an order has been fulfilled it can't be cancelled, but you may be eligible for a refund under our returns policy.

All FLATED products are covered by a two-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty against manufacturer defects. If something fails due to a defect, we will replace it.

Misuse, over-inflation beyond the recommended PSI, accidental damage, or using the product as a flotation device.

The warranty applies to the original purchaser.

Yes – straps, pumps and other accessories are available. Contact hello@flated.co.nz or check our accessories range.

Yes — visit our Auckland showroom at 690 Great South Road, Penrose, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. You can also book a fitment appointment via the product page.

Email hello@flated.co.nz or call 09 630 0753, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

Yes, we run sales at various points through the year – sign up to our newsletter or socials for the latest offers.

Yes – all payments run through Shopify's secure, encrypted checkout, so your card details are never stored on our site.

It's likely under-inflated, or the air has cooled and contracted. Check the PSI with your pump and top it up if needed.

Try twisting the stem slightly while you push it – see our valve instructions video. If it's still sticking, a light lubricant down the centre shaft usually fixes it.

Check the hose connection and the gasket first. Sometimes swapping the o-ring on the nozzle for the thinner one supplied with the pump solves it.

Standard inflatable boat pump hoses generally fit and are widely available.

Unzip it fully and re-zip slowly and carefully, using a zipper lubricant to help it run smoothly.

Open a vent to let the moisture out and improve airflow.

You can if you'd like added weather protection, though it's not necessary.

Yes, standard vinyl decals adhere well to the surface.

It's not designed to come off easily without damaging the surface underneath.

Contact hello@flated.co.nz and we'll send one through.

Yes, it doubles as a great sleeping pad or picnic base on the ground.

Yes, it works with almost all aftermarket crossbar systems.

Yes, as long as you have roof racks, or you can use the pass-through strap system if you don't.

There's a small effect from added wind resistance, similar to any roof-mounted load, but it's noticeably less than a heavy fibreglass canopy. We don't have exact figures, but reported fuel economy loss has been minor.

No – it's not designed, rated or sold as a flotation device or watercraft.

Yes, it's a popular choice for hunters wanting secure, weatherproof gear storage and a place to shelter overnight.

It's quieter than a typical tent, though you will still hear rainfall on the material.

No – don't attach a hard roof box to the Air-Topper.

Deflate fully, fold the bulkhead panel in, fold the side panels in, then fold in half lengthwise and roll it up – our packing videos show the exact sequence.