NZ Company scales dizzy heights with vertigo project

Auckland based Liquid Automation Ltd. is riding on the crest of a wave after winning two industry ‘Oscars’ for the 220ft Vertigo – one of the largest and most technically advanced sailing yachts ever built.

Liquid Automation, which specialises in automated entertainment, lighting and security systems, won a Global CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design Installation Association) award for best technical design, and an Australasian AVIA (Audio Visual Industry Awards) for best application of AV in a Commercial or Government Installation, over $500k. The company is the first Australasian business ever to win a Global CEDIA award.

‘As a New Zealand business it means a great deal to be recognised for our work on an international stage, especially as we were up against some pretty stiff global competition,” says Liquid Automation Director Stephan Goodhue.  “This yacht is our largest marine system to date and features many of our new custom innovations.  The end result is a very happy client and a system we are truly proud of.”

The Vertigo project involved the design and installation of an intuitive custom designed user interface to control on board entertainment, security, lighting, emergency and real-time navigation systems. Other notable highlights include, an intuitive user interface, fibre optic distribution of HD Video, AMX touchpanels fronting a fully integrated Crestron control system and a sound system providing a HiFi music experience, yet capable of nightclub SPL levels.

Specialising in automated entertainment, lighting and security systems for luxury residential, commercial and marine projects worldwide, Liquid’s projects range from a $50,000 in-house system to million dollar-plus AV fit-outs for super-yachts.  Other recent Liquid Automation projects include the Sky City Casino refurbishment and the Kim Dotcom mansion in Coatesville.

Goodhue continues; “Our vision is to continue using our expertise in reliable system design and documentation learned from the marine sector to expand the business and take on more residential and commercial work both here and overseas. Our next project may be to extend our trophy cabinet as we’ve won five awards in the last 12 months!”