Elevating Performance: Designing a World-Class Stage Lift for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
EHL Group partnered with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) to deliver a custom mobile stage lifting platform for Wellington Town Hall—one of New Zealand’s premier performance venues.
The project required more than a standard lifting solution. It demanded a system that could deliver precise, quiet, and repeatable movement while adapting seamlessly to different orchestral configurations. At the same time, the platform needed to integrate visually into the stage environment and meet the highest standards of safety, durability, and operational ease.
The result is a purpose-built engineering solution that enhances both performer experience and stage management efficiency without compromising the audience experience.
For a detailed insight visit: https://www.ehlsolutions.com/mobile-stage-lifting-platform-nzso-wellington/
The Process
EHL approached the project as a fully integrated engineering challenge—balancing performance requirements, safety, and aesthetics from concept through to delivery.
Design & Engineering
The platform was specifically designed for orchestral use, with a 3.0m x 1.6m footprint and a 1000 kg load capacity. It incorporates programmable height presets to suit various orchestral configurations, enabling fast and consistent stage setup.
Motion & Control Systems
To ensure smooth, near-silent operation, the system integrates:
- A chain-driven Link Lift mechanism for stable vertical motion
- Encoder-based positioning for accuracy
- PLC-controlled automation for smooth acceleration and deceleration
- Pre-set stops for repeatable positioning
Safety Engineering
Safety was embedded into every stage of the design, including:
- Load sensing and imbalance detection
- Emergency stop systems
- Redundant travel limits and encoder systems
- Dual-action controls to prevent accidental operation
Fabrication & Testing
The platform was manufactured using a steel base frame with stainless steel surfaces for durability and finish. All components—including mechanical systems and controls—were fabricated and assembled in-house, followed by comprehensive testing and validation prior to delivery.
Integration & Mobility
The lift was designed as a fully mobile system, featuring directional-lock wheels, compatibility with a tug for repositioning, and a removable ramp for easy equipment access. This allows the NZSO to reconfigure stage layouts quickly between performances.
The Result
EHL approached the project as a fully integrated engineering challenge—balancing performance requirements, safety, and aesthetics from concept through to delivery.
Design & Engineering
The platform was specifically designed for orchestral use, with a 3.0m x 1.6m footprint and a 1000 kg load capacity. It incorporates programmable height presets to suit various orchestral configurations, enabling fast and consistent stage setup.
Motion & Control Systems
To ensure smooth, near-silent operation, the system integrates:
- A chain-driven Link Lift mechanism for stable vertical motion
- Encoder-based positioning for accuracy
- PLC-controlled automation for smooth acceleration and deceleration
- Pre-set stops for repeatable positioning
Safety Engineering
Safety was embedded into every stage of the design, including:
- Load sensing and imbalance detection
- Emergency stop systems
- Redundant travel limits and encoder systems
- Dual-action controls to prevent accidental operation
Fabrication & Testing
The platform was manufactured using a steel base frame with stainless steel surfaces for durability and finish. All components—including mechanical systems and controls—were fabricated and assembled in-house, followed by comprehensive testing and validation prior to delivery.
Integration & Mobility
The lift was designed as a fully mobile system, featuring directional-lock wheels, compatibility with a tug for repositioning, and a removable ramp for easy equipment access. This allows the NZSO to reconfigure stage layouts quickly between performances.
