Buying a Generator in New Zealand

Need backup power in NZ? Here’s your down-to-earth guide to local voltages, trusted brands, the best models, and where to shop—plus must-have add-ons like an inverter generator or a safe transfer switch kit.

Single-Phase Voltage: 230 V / Three-Phase Voltage: 400 V / Frequency (Hertz): 50 Hz / # of Wires: 3 / Plug Type(s): Type I (AS/NZS 3112)

What are you looking for?

• Generator Brands/Models in New Zealand
• Where to Buy Generators in New Zealand
• New Zealand Generator Guide & FAQs

Generator Brands for Sale in New Zealand

New Zealand has a healthy mix of petrol inverters, diesel standby units, and industrial gensets. From portable units for camping to full-scale backup for farms and businesses, here are some key brands:

• Honda: Renowned for quiet inverter technology—perfect for camping, caravans, and small homes. Typical NZ pricing: ~NZ$1,800–NZ$4,500. Browse Honda inverter options.
• Yamaha: Reliable, super-quiet inverters; popular with trades and outdoor enthusiasts. ~NZ$1,600–NZ$3,800. See Yamaha EF series.
• Kohler: Premium standby systems with ATS support. Price by quote—common in commercial or large homes.
• Kubota: Low-RPM diesel gensets (GL series); great for rural properties needing longer runtimes. ~6–20 kVA. Quote-based.
• Cummins: Heavy-duty standby and industrial sets with strong NZ dealer support. Quote-based (20 kVA+).
• Pramac: Broad range of petrol and diesel gens for SMEs and trade use. Price by quote.
• Hyundai: Budget-friendly petrol and diesel portables. ~NZ$1,000–NZ$3,000.
• Genmac / FG Wilson: Commercial and industrial diesel solutions. Price by quote.

Best Generator Models in New Zealand

“Best” depends on your usage—whether it’s a campsite inverter or a farm diesel standby. Pair any unit with safety gear like a surge protector and a heavy-duty extension cord.

• Honda EU22i / EU30is: Quiet inverters; ideal for camping, small fridges, and electronics. ~2.2–3.0 kW. NZ$2,000–NZ$4,500.
• Yamaha EF2200iS / EF3000iSE: Lightweight inverters with solid runtime. ~2.2–3.0 kW. NZ$1,900–NZ$3,800.
• Kubota GL6000 / GL7000: Diesel gensets for rural/farm backup. ~6–7 kVA. Quote-based.
• Kohler 20–45 kVA: Premium standby solutions with ATS. Quote-based.
• Cummins C30–C60: Strong backup for large homes/businesses. 30–60 kVA. Quote-based.
• Hyundai DHY6000SE: Affordable diesel portable with electric start. ~5.5 kVA. Around NZ$2,800–NZ$3,500.

Where to Buy Generators in New Zealand

Choose authorised NZ distributors for warranty and aftersales support. Always confirm stock, servicing, and parts availability. Accessories like ATS kits, weatherproof covers, and CO alarms are easy online buys.

Team Power Equipment

• 16C Parkhead Place, Albany, Auckland 0632
• Contact: +64 9 414 5480 • sales@teampower.co.nz
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Yamaha Motor New Zealand

• 73 Kenepuru Drive, Porirua 5022, Wellington
• Contact: +64 4 237 0260
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Kubota New Zealand

• 38 Highbrook Drive, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013
• Contact: +64 9 414 4300
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Cummins Sales and Service NZ

• 33 Vestey Drive, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1060
• Contact: +64 9 573 5990
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Gen Power New Zealand

• Unit 3/70 Kerrs Road, Wiri, Auckland 2104
• Contact: info@genpower.co.nz
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tru-Test Group (Power Equipment)

• 7 Spartan Road, Takanini, Auckland 2105
• Contact: +64 9 250 2020
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hyundai Power Products NZ

• 14 Orbit Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632
• Contact: sales@hyundaipower.co.nz
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Trade Tested

• 36 Tidal Road, Mangere, Auckland 2022
• Contact: 0800 800 880 • sales@tradetested.co.nz
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

New Zealand Generator Buying Guide and Tips

• Sizing matters: Add up essential loads (fridge, lights, Wi-Fi, pump). Small homes/camping: 2–3 kW inverters. Farms/business: 6–20+ kVA diesel sets.
• Noise levels: Inverters ~50–60 dB at 7 m (conversation-level). Open-frame petrol ~70–85 dB. Check council or DOC campsite noise rules.
• Fuel choice: Petrol inverters = portable/quiet. Diesel = long runtime and efficiency. Dual-fuel/LPG options offer storage flexibility.
• Electrical safety in NZ: Use a registered electrician. Install compliant changeover switches or ATS—never back-feed into mains.
• Power quality: For electronics, stick to pure sine inverter generators or AVR-equipped sets with quality surge protection.
• Cords & outlets: Use Type I 230 V-rated cords (10–12 AWG equivalent). Keep runs short, weather-protected, and RCD-protected.
• Maintenance: First oil change early, then follow intervals. Stock filters, plugs, and spare oil. Run monthly with a load.
• Weather & storage: NZ’s damp conditions mean cover and ventilation are vital. Consider running covers or enclosures.
• Accessories: Wheel kits, fuel cans, funnels, generator cords, and UPS units for sensitive devices.

Buying Generator in New Zealand FAQs

How much does generator installation usually cost in New Zealand?
Portable units with a manual changeover switch usually cost NZ$500–NZ$1,500 (labour + parts). Full standby systems with ATS, pad, and cabling can range NZ$3,000–NZ$10,000+ (excluding the generator).

How noisy can a generator be in New Zealand?
Modern inverters: 50–60 dB at 7 m. Open-frame petrol: 70–85 dB. Enclosed diesel: ~65–75 dB. Always check council or campsite noise restrictions.

Which generator type and fuel are best for New Zealand’s climate?
For short outages or camping: petrol inverters (portable, quiet). For rural/farm or frequent outages: diesel sets with ATS—efficient, durable, and suited for longer runtime.

What are the typical warranties for generators in New Zealand?
Portable inverters: usually 1–3 years consumer use. Diesel standby/prime units: commonly 12–24 months or hour-based. Ensure the generator is installed/commissioned by an authorised dealer to validate warranty.