Auckland

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Utilities

Information on setting up water, electricity, gas, and internet services in Auckland.

Sections

1. Electricity

Electricity is an essential utility in Auckland, and the market is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers. The main electricity providers include Meridian Energy, Genesis Energy, Contact Energy, Mercury Energy, and Powershop.

Estimated Costs

  • Daily fixed charge: NZD 0.30–1.50 per day (varies by provider and plan).
  • Usage charge: NZD 0.20–0.35 per kWh (kilowatt-hour).
  • Monthly bill: NZD 120–200 for an average household, depending on usage and the size of your home.

How to Set Up a New Account

  1. Compare providers: Use websites like Powerswitch to compare plans and find the best deal for your needs.
  2. Contact the provider: Once you’ve chosen a provider, contact them online or by phone to set up an account. You’ll need:
    • Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license, or other ID).
    • Your address.
    • Move-in date.
    • Bank account details for payment.
  3. Smart meters: Most homes in Auckland have smart meters, so readings are automated. If your home doesn’t have one, the provider will arrange for a meter reading.

Payment Procedures

  • Direct debit: The most common and convenient method.
  • Online banking: Pay through your bank’s app or website.
  • Credit card: Some providers allow credit card payments (may incur a small fee).
  • Pay in person: At New Zealand Post shops or other payment centers.

Tips

  • Consider a low user plan if your household uses less than 8,000 kWh per year (common for small households).
  • Check if your provider offers discounts for prompt payments or bundling electricity with gas.

2. Water

Water services in Auckland are managed by Watercare Services Limited, a council-owned organization.

Estimated Costs

  • Fixed charge: NZD 0.50–1.00 per day.
  • Usage charge: NZD 1.82 per 1,000 liters (as of 2023).
  • Monthly bill: NZD 40–80 for an average household.

How to Set Up a New Account

  1. Contact Watercare: Visit their website (Watercare) or call their customer service to set up an account.
  2. Provide details: You’ll need:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Your address.
    • Move-in date.
  3. Meter reading: Watercare will arrange for a meter reading when you move in.

Payment Procedures

  • Direct debit: Set up automatic payments through your bank.
  • Online banking: Pay via your bank’s app or website.
  • Credit card: Payments can be made online through Watercare’s portal.
  • In person: Payments can be made at New Zealand Post shops.

Tips

  • Auckland has periodic water restrictions during dry seasons. Be mindful of water usage and check for updates on the Watercare website.
  • If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord whether water charges are included in your rent.

3. Internet

Auckland has excellent internet infrastructure, including fiber-optic broadband, ADSL, VDSL, and mobile broadband. Major providers include Spark, Vodafone, 2degrees, and Orcon.

Estimated Costs

  • Fiber broadband: NZD 75–120 per month (depending on speed and data cap).
  • Installation fee: Often free for long-term contracts, but may cost NZD 100–200 for short-term plans.
  • Mobile broadband: NZD 50–100 per month (depending on data allowance).

How to Set Up a New Account

  1. Compare providers: Use websites like Glimp to compare plans.
  2. Contact the provider: Sign up online or by phone. You’ll need:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Your address.
    • Move-in date.
    • Bank account details for payment.
  3. Installation: If your home doesn’t already have fiber installed, the provider will arrange for installation (may take 1–3 weeks).

Payment Procedures

  • Direct debit: The most common method.
  • Online banking: Pay through your bank’s app or website.
  • Credit card: Some providers allow credit card payments.

Tips

  • Fiber broadband is widely available in Auckland and offers the best speeds. Check with your provider to confirm availability at your address.
  • Some providers offer discounts if you bundle internet with mobile or electricity services.

4. Gas

Gas is used in some Auckland homes for cooking, heating, and hot water. Major providers include Genesis Energy, Contact Energy, and Nova Energy.

Estimated Costs

  • Daily fixed charge: NZD 0.50–1.50 per day.
  • Usage charge: NZD 0.07–0.10 per kWh.
  • Monthly bill: NZD 50–100 for an average household.

How to Set Up a New Account

  1. Compare providers: Use Powerswitch to find the best deal.
  2. Contact the provider: Sign up online or by phone. You’ll need:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Your address.
    • Move-in date.
    • Bank account details for payment.
  3. Connection: If your home doesn’t already have a gas connection, the provider will arrange for installation (may incur additional costs).

Payment Procedures

  • Direct debit: The most common method.
  • Online banking: Pay through your bank’s app or website.
  • Credit card: Some providers allow credit card payments.

Tips

  • Consider bundling gas and electricity with the same provider for potential discounts.
  • If you’re renting, check with your landlord whether gas is connected to the property.

5. Waste Management

Waste management in Auckland is managed by Auckland Council. Services include rubbish collection, recycling, and organic waste (food scraps).

Estimated Costs

  • Rubbish bags: NZD 2.50–3.90 per bag (pay-as-you-go system).
  • Bin collection: Included in your rates if you own a property; renters may need to purchase rubbish bags.
  • Recycling: Free (included in rates).
  • Food scraps: Free (included in rates).

How to Set Up a New Account

  • Rubbish and recycling: If you’re renting, your landlord may already have bins provided. If not, contact Auckland Council to arrange for bins.
  • Food scraps: Auckland Council provides a small bin for food scraps in most areas.

Payment Procedures

  • Rubbish bags: Purchase from supermarkets or convenience stores.
  • Rates: If you own a property, waste management costs are included in your council rates.

Tips

General Tips for Utilities in Auckland

  1. Keep track of bills: Most providers offer online portals or apps to track your usage and bills.
  2. Bundle services: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle electricity, gas, and internet.
  3. Energy efficiency: Auckland winters can be damp and chilly, so consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce heating costs.
  4. Emergency contacts: Save the emergency contact numbers for your utility providers in case of outages or issues.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Auckland, ensuring a smooth transition to life in the city.