Yes, in most cases you can connect a portable gas heater to an existing wall bayonet fitting yourself — this is one of the very few gas-related tasks that New Zealand law permits homeowners to carry out without a licensed gasfitter. However, there are important rules, safety checks, and limitations you need to understand before you get started.
What the Law Says
Gas work in New Zealand is tightly regulated under the Gas Act 1992 and associated regulations. Almost all gas installation and repair work is restricted work that must be carried out by a gasfitter registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). However, connecting a flexible hose from a portable (flued or unflued) gas heater to an existing, compliant wall bayonet is specifically permitted for homeowners — provided you are not modifying, installing, or repairing any part of the fixed gas installation itself.
In plain terms: if the bayonet is already there and in good working order, you can plug your heater in. If you need a new bayonet installed, moved, or repaired, that is restricted work and you must use a licensed gasfitter.
What Is a Wall Bayonet Fitting?
A wall bayonet (sometimes called a bayonet socket or gas point) is a quick-connect fitting mounted on the wall that connects to your home's fixed LPG or natural gas supply. It has a spring-loaded valve that only opens when a compatible bayonet plug is inserted and turned. The bayonet fitting itself must have been installed by a licensed gasfitter and should comply with NZS 5261 (Gas Installation).
What You'll Need
- A portable gas heater with a bayonet-compatible flexible hose (usually supplied with the heater or available from hardware stores)
- A hose in good condition — no cracks, kinks, or damage
- A hose of the correct length (keep it as short as practical; avoid running it under doors, through walls, or across walkways)
- A working bayonet fitting on the wall
You can find suitable flexible hoses and fittings at Bunnings or Mitre 10. Always check the hose is rated for gas use and is compatible with your heater and bayonet type.
Step-by-Step: Connecting Your Heater
- Check the bayonet fitting — inspect it for damage, corrosion, or signs of wear. If in doubt, have a gasfitter check it before use.
- Inspect the flexible hose — replace it if it shows any cracking, perishing, or damage. Hoses have a limited service life; check the manufacturer's recommendation.
- Turn the heater's control to OFF before connecting.
- Insert the bayonet plug into the wall fitting, push in firmly, and turn clockwise until it locks.
- Check for gas leaks — apply a small amount of leak-detection solution (or soapy water) around the connection and watch for bubbles. Never use a naked flame to check for leaks.
- Ventilate the room — unflued gas heaters produce combustion byproducts including water vapour and carbon monoxide. Always ensure adequate ventilation when using an unflued heater.
- Light the heater according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Important Safety Rules
- Never leave an unflued gas heater running in a sealed room or while sleeping. Carbon monoxide is odourless and can be fatal.
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room where you use an unflued gas heater. This is strongly recommended and may be required under the Healthy Homes Standards for rental properties.
- Keep the heater clear of curtains, furniture, and other flammables.
- Do not use a heater with a damaged hose or faulty bayonet.
- If you ever smell gas, turn off the heater, disconnect it, ventilate the area, and call your gas supplier or a licensed gasfitter immediately. Do not operate any switches or use a phone inside the property until it is safe.
- Check WorkSafe NZ guidance on gas safety for further advice.
Healthy Homes and Rental Properties
If you are a landlord, be aware that the Healthy Homes Standards set requirements around heating and ventilation. Unflued gas heaters are generally not considered compliant heating sources under the Healthy Homes heating standard. Check the current requirements carefully or seek advice from MBIE Building Performance.
When to Call a Professional
You must use a licensed gasfitter for any of the following:
- Installing a new bayonet fitting or moving an existing one
- Repairing or replacing any part of the fixed gas pipework or fittings
- Commissioning a flued (flueless or balanced-flue) gas heater that connects to a fixed flue system
- Any situation where you suspect a gas leak or fault in the fixed installation
- Connecting any permanently installed gas appliance
A licensed gasfitter will issue a Certificate of Compliance for restricted gas work, which is important for insurance and resale purposes. You can find qualified, local gasfitters on tradedirectory.co.nz — always check that your gasfitter is registered with the PGDB.