The recently developed Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt is one of the most advanced residential locks in the world, and is now available in New Zealand.

Schlage Sense connects to Apple's HomeKit using an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. HomeKit is Apple's home automation system and in conjunction with the Sense app, it gives users control over the lock, access codes and smart features. One example of the smart features is that homeowners are able to name their device and lock/unlock their door via voice commands to their Apple iPhone (e.g. "Siri, open the gates to Mordor").

For over 95 years, Schlage has been known for the quality of its products, and the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt is no different. The lock was given an ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 rating — the highest rating possible. In most cases, it takes around 20 minutes to install the lock and set it up. Once the lock is turned on, the device runs through a system test to make sure everything's running as it should.

In case someone tries to tamper with the Schlage Sense deadbolt from the outside, there is a built-in alarm with different sensitivity settings. For example, the device can be set to beep whenever the door is opened or closed, and an attempt at a forced-entry will result in a high volume alarm sounding. The Schlage Sense can be set to automatically lock after a time period of the homeowner's choosing, and it also has a quick lock feature that allows users to lock the door without entering a code, simply by pressing the Schlage logo on the face of the device.

The Schlage app provides a log of every lock action, so homeowners can see when the lock was opened and closed, and by whom. Homeowners can add or delete codes for anyone they want quickly and easily — either manually on the device, or via the app. The keypad on the device is fingerprint resistant to prevent anyone from guessing a PIN from fingerprint marks on the face of the lock. The Schlage Sense is also weather resistant, with a lifetime finish warranty.

Up to 30 codes can be stored in the device at a time, and there are different types of codes available. For example, a homeowner can give family and friends unrestricted codes that grant them access at any time, or they can choose to give a dog walker, electrician or grocery-delivery service a code that allows them access to the home only during certain days and times.

As well as its class-leading security features, the Schlage Sense also comes with great warranties, including a limited lifetime finish and mechanical warranty, and a limited three year electronic warranty.