Getting electricity, water and other utilities for your home
How you get services like electricity, water and the internet in New Zealand may be different to what you are used to.
Electricity and gas
There are a number of electricity and gas retailers in New Zealand, offering a variety of plans.
Look around for the best deal. Price comparison websites can help you.
Electricity
A lot of New Zealand’s electricity comes from hydroelectric, geothermal and wind generation.
Electricity in New Zealand is supplied at a minimal voltage of 230 to 240 volts.
Electrical plugs
New Zealand power outlets take electrical plugs with 3 flat pins, one of which is an 'earth' pin. Some power plugs do not have the earth pin, but they still fit into the power outlets.
You may need an adaptor to use appliances you have bought with you. Make sure the appliance can operate at 240 volts.
Gas
Many homes use gas for cooking, water and space heating. In some areas of the North Island natural gas is piped to homes, elsewhere it is available in bottles as LPG (liquid petroleum gas).
Alert
Because gas is naturally odourless, suppliers add a smell to help identify and locate any leaks. Make sure you are familiar with this odour as it may be different from the smell that you are used to.
Wood burners
Wood burners are a common form of heating in New Zealand. If the home you rent or buy has one, there are some basic things you need to know.
- Some areas prohibit the use of wood burners for air quality reasons, so check with the local council that you are able to use it.
- You need a source of dry wood. You also need to understand how to start, build and maintain a fire.
- Check that the burner has a building consent and get the chimney swept annually to keep your insurance cover valid.
How to burn smoke free — New Zealand Home Heating Association
Water
The tap (faucet) water in New Zealand cities and towns is drinking quality. Dams and reservoirs can run low, especially in late summer, but generally water is freely available. Local councils administer the water supply and will let you know about any restrictions.
In some rural areas, homes collect their own rainwater in tanks or use underground bores.
Water is generally provided by the local council of your city or region in New Zealand. The cost may vary depending on the region.
If you are renting, your landlord is responsible for any fixed charge for wastewater, but you will be responsible for any metered water charges.
Water and wastewater charges — Tenancy Services
In some areas, homes have water usage meters too. Tenants in these properties pay for the water they use, while the owner covers the other charges.
Rubbish and recycling
In urban areas, local councils collect rubbish and offer recycling services for things like glass, plastic, paper and cardboard, and organic waste.
New Zealanders are keen recyclers and often buy second-hand goods. Most cities and towns have transfer stations (rubbish dumps) where you can leave good used items for recycling.
For information on rubbish collection and recycling in your area, visit your local council's website.
Internet and telephone
There are a number of internet and telephone providers in New Zealand, so it pays to shop around for the best deal.
Using mobile phones, internet, TV and radio
Most of New Zealand has access to ultrafast broadband. Look around for the best deal — comparison websites can help you.