Nelson

1. Electricity

Electricity in Nelson is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers. The main electricity providers in the region include Contact Energy, Meridian Energy, Genesis Energy, Powershop, and Trustpower.

Setup Process:

1. Compare Providers:
   • Use comparison websites like Powerswitch to find the best plan for your needs.
   • Consider factors like pricing, renewable energy options, and contract terms.
2. Sign Up:
   • Once you’ve chosen a provider, sign up online or over the phone. You’ll need to provide:
     • Your address.
     • Move-in date.
     • Identification (passport or driver’s license).
     • Bank account details for billing.
3. Connection:
   • Most properties in Nelson already have electricity infrastructure in place. If the power is off, the provider will arrange reconnection, which may take 1–3 business days.

Costs:

• Daily fixed charge: NZD 0.30–1.50 per day.
• Usage charge: NZD 0.25–0.35 per kWh, depending on the provider and plan.
• Some providers offer discounts for prompt payment or bundling with other services (e.g., internet).

Local Considerations:

• Many providers offer renewable energy plans, which align with New Zealand’s focus on sustainability.
• If you’re renting, check with your landlord to confirm the electricity provider or if they have a preferred one.

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2. Water

In Nelson, water services are managed by the Nelson City Council. Residential water is metered, and you’ll be billed based on usage.

Setup Process:

1. Landlord or Property Manager:
   • If you’re renting, water charges are typically included in your rent unless specified otherwise. Confirm this with your landlord.
2. Homeowners:
   • If you own the property, the water meter will already be connected. You’ll receive quarterly water bills from the Nelson City Council.
3. Billing:
   • Bills are sent directly to the property owner or tenant (if applicable). You can pay online, via direct debit, or at the council office.

Costs:

• Water usage charge: NZD 2.20–2.50 per cubic meter (1,000 liters).
• Fixed charge: Included in property rates for homeowners.

Local Considerations:

• Nelson experiences dry summers, so water conservation is encouraged. Be mindful of water restrictions during drought periods.

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3. Internet

Nelson has excellent internet connectivity, including fiber broadband in most urban areas. Major providers include Spark, Vodafone, 2degrees, Slingshot, and Orcon.

Setup Process:

1. Check Availability:
   • Use the Chorus Broadband Checker to see if your address has fiber, VDSL, or ADSL options.
2. Choose a Provider:
   • Compare plans based on speed, data caps (if any), and pricing. Fiber plans are the most common and offer speeds of 100 Mbps or higher.
3. Sign Up:
   • Sign up online or over the phone. You’ll need:
     • Your address.
     • Identification.
     • Bank account details for billing.
4. Installation:
   • If fiber is not already installed, the provider will arrange for a technician to set it up. This may take 1–2 weeks.

Costs:

• Fiber plans: NZD 75–120 per month for unlimited data.
• Installation fees: Often free with a 12- or 24-month contract.

Local Considerations:

• Some providers offer bundled deals with electricity or mobile plans, which can save money.
• If you’re in a rural area, you may need to consider wireless broadband or satellite internet.

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4. Gas

Gas is less common in Nelson homes compared to electricity, but it’s available for cooking, heating, and hot water. Gas is supplied in two forms: reticulated natural gas (limited availability) or bottled LPG.

Setup Process:

1. Natural Gas:
   • If your property has a natural gas connection, contact a provider like Genesis Energy or Contact Energy to set up an account.
   • Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
2. Bottled LPG:
   • For properties without natural gas, bottled LPG is common. Providers include Rockgas and Elgas.
   • Order bottles online or by phone. Delivery is typically within 1–3 days.

Costs:

• Natural gas: NZD 0.07–0.10 per kWh, plus a daily fixed charge of NZD 0.50–1.50.
• LPG bottles: NZD 100–120 for a 45kg bottle (refill).

Local Considerations:

• If you’re renting, check with your landlord about the type of gas connection and whether they cover any costs.

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5. Waste Collection

Waste collection in Nelson is managed by the Nelson City Council. Services include rubbish, recycling, and green waste collection.

Setup Process:

1. Rubbish Collection:
   • Purchase official prepaid rubbish bags from supermarkets or council offices. Only these bags will be collected.
   • Place bags on the curb on your designated collection day.
2. Recycling:
   • The council provides a free recycling bin for each property. If your property doesn’t have one, request it from the council.
   • Recycling is collected fortnightly.
3. Green Waste:
   • Green waste collection is optional and provided by private companies like Green Waste to Zero. Sign up directly with the provider.

Costs:

• Prepaid rubbish bags: NZD 2.50–3.50 per bag.
• Recycling: Free.
• Green waste collection: NZD 10–20 per month, depending on the provider.

Local Considerations:

• Nelson has a strong focus on sustainability. Ensure you separate recyclables (glass, plastics, paper) from general waste.
• Check the council’s website for your collection schedule and guidelines.

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Additional Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Nelson

• Timing: Arrange utilities at least 1–2 weeks before moving in to ensure everything is ready.
• Bundling Services: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle electricity, gas, and internet.
• Emergency Contacts:
  • Electricity outages: Contact your provider or Network Tasman (the local lines company).
  • Water issues: Call the Nelson City Council at 03 546 0200.
  • Gas leaks: Call your gas provider immediately.

By following these steps and considering the local nuances, you’ll be well-prepared to set up utilities in Nelson and enjoy a comfortable stay in this beautiful city.