You can change a power point yourself if you turn off the circuit breaker first, but most people call a registered electrician because the work must meet the Building Code
A power point (or outlet) in New Zealand can be replaced by a homeowner, but the job has legal requirements. The work must comply with the Building Code and the Electrical (Safety) Regulations 2010. If you own the house and the circuit is not damaged, you can do it yourself — but if you rent, your landlord or their electrician must do it. Either way, you must turn off power at the circuit breaker before you touch anything.
Most people hire a registered electrician instead. The cost is usually between $80 and $150 per power point, plus the cost of the outlet itself (typically $5 to $20). A registered electrician will test the circuit, replace the outlet, and provide a Electrical Safety Certificate that proves the work meets code. This certificate matters if you ever sell the house or make an insurance claim.
Key Takeaways
- You must turn off the circuit breaker before removing or installing any power point, and test the outlet with a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
- Homeowners can replace a power point themselves, but the work must meet the Building Code and Electrical Safety Regulations — many people hire a registered electrician to avoid mistakes.
- A registered electrician will charge $80 to $150 per outlet and will provide an Electrical Safety Certificate proving the work is compliant.
- If you rent, your landlord is responsible for replacing the power point — you cannot do it yourself.
- The outlet itself costs $5 to $20, depending on the type and brand you choose.
When you can replace a power point yourself
You can replace a power point if you own the house, the circuit breaker works, and the wiring inside the wall is not damaged or discoloured. The steps are straightforward: turn off the circuit breaker for that outlet, use a voltage tester to confirm the power is off, unscrew the old outlet from the wall box, disconnect the three wires (live, neutral, and earth), connect them to the new outlet in the same order, and screw the new outlet back in.
The voltage tester is essential. Plug it into the outlet before you touch anything — if it lights up, the power is still on and you must find the correct breaker. Do not guess. If you turn off the wrong breaker and the outlet is still live, you risk electrocution.
After installation, test the new outlet with the voltage tester again to make sure it is working. If you have any doubt about which wire goes where, or if the wires are damaged or the wall box is cracked, stop and call a registered electrician. The cost of a mistake — fire, electrocution, or a failed inspection — is far higher than the cost of hiring someone.
Why most people hire a registered electrician
A registered electrician brings three things a homeowner usually does not: a may provide that the work meets code, the ability to spot problems you might miss, and a certificate that proves it. The Electrical Safety Certificate is a legal document. If you sell the house, the buyer's bank may require it. If there is a fire and the insurance company investigates, they will ask for it.
Electricians also have the right tools and experience to handle older wiring, damaged circuits, or outlets that are wired incorrectly. If the outlet is in a bathroom or kitchen, it may need to be a safety switch outlet (RCD-protected) — an electrician will know this and install the right type. If you install the wrong type, the outlet will not meet code and you may have to replace it again.
The cost is $80 to $150 per outlet, plus the outlet itself. For a single power point, this is a reasonable price for certainty. If you are replacing several outlets, the cost per outlet may drop slightly because the electrician is already on site.
How to find a registered electrician in New Zealand
Look for an electrician registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). You can search the register at ewrb.govt.nz. A registered electrician has passed exams, completed training, and carries insurance. They are legally required to issue an Electrical Safety Certificate when the work is done.
Ask for a quote before the work starts. Most electricians will give you a price over the phone if you describe the job — "I need to replace one power point in the lounge" — or they will visit for a free or low-cost quote. Get at least two quotes so you know the range in your area.
When the work is finished, ask for the Electrical Safety Certificate and keep it with your house documents. If you ever sell, you will need to show it to the buyer or their solicitor.
What to do if you rent
If you rent, you cannot replace the power point yourself. Your landlord is responsible for maintaining the house in a safe and habitable condition, which includes working power points. If an outlet is broken, damaged, or not working, tell your landlord or property manager in writing (email is fine) and ask them to fix it.
Your landlord must arrange for a registered electrician to do the work. They pay for it — you do not. If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time (usually one to two weeks for a non-urgent repair), you can contact the Tenancy Services helpline on 0800 836 262 or visit tenancy.govt.nz for information on your rights.
Types of power points and when you need a special one
Most power points in New Zealand are standard 10-amp outlets, but some rooms require a safety switch outlet (RCD-protected). Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas must have RCD protection by law. An RCD outlet has a test button and a reset button on the face — if there is a fault, it cuts power when ready to prevent electrocution.
If you are replacing an outlet in a bathroom or kitchen and the old one does not have these buttons, you need to install an RCD outlet. A registered electrician will know this and do it automatically. If you are doing the work yourself, check the Building Code or ask an electrician which type you need before you buy the outlet.
Some people also install USB outlets (which have built-in USB ports) or smart outlets (which can be controlled by an app). These cost more ($20 to $60) but work the same way — turn off the breaker, disconnect the old outlet, and connect the new one in its place.
What to do if the outlet is damaged or the wiring is old
If the wall box is cracked, the outlet sparks when you plug something in, or the wires are discoloured or brittle, do not try to replace it yourself. These are signs of a deeper problem — loose connections, overheating, or old wiring that may not be safe. Call a registered electrician.
An electrician will test the circuit, check the wiring, and replace the outlet if it is safe to do so. If the wiring is damaged, they may need to run new cable, which costs more and takes longer. But it is the only safe option. Ignoring these signs can lead to fire or electrocution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace a power point?
No, you do not need a council permit to replace a single power point. But the work must meet the Building Code and Electrical Safety Regulations. If you hire a registered electrician, they will handle compliance. If you do it yourself, you are responsible for making sure it is done correctly.
Can I replace a power point if the circuit breaker is broken?
No. If the breaker will not switch off, or if you cannot find the right breaker, do not touch the outlet. Call a registered electrician. A broken breaker is a safety hazard and must be fixed before any other work is done.
How long does it take to replace a power point?
If you do it yourself and everything goes smoothly, 15 to 30 minutes. A registered electrician will usually take 30 to 60 minutes per outlet, including testing and paperwork. If there are complications (damaged wiring, old circuits), it may take longer.
What if I plug something in and it does not work?
First, check that the circuit breaker is on. If it is, use a voltage tester to see if power is reaching the outlet. If there is no power, the breaker may have tripped or the outlet may be wired to a different breaker than you thought. If the outlet has power but appliances do not work, the outlet itself may be faulty — replace it or call an electrician.
Can I install a power point in a new location?
Yes, but you must hire a registered electrician. Running new cable through walls, installing a new wall box, and connecting it to the circuit requires skill and knowledge of the Building Code. This is not a DIY job. An electrician will assess the circuit, run the cable safely, and install the outlet.