The short answer is no — installing a new outdoor gas point for a BBQ in NZ is restricted gasfitting work and must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter. Attempting to do it yourself is illegal, potentially dangerous, and could void your home insurance. Here's a full breakdown of what's involved, what the law says, and how to get it done safely.
Why You Can't DIY a Gas Point Installation
Under the Gas Act 1992 and its regulations, any work that involves connecting, altering, or extending a gas installation — including adding a new outlet — is restricted work. Only a licensed gasfitter registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) is legally permitted to carry out this work.
This applies whether your home runs on natural gas (reticulated) or LPG (bottled). The restriction exists for very good reasons:
- Gas leaks can cause fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Incorrect fittings or pipe sizing can result in dangerous pressure drops or leaks.
- Unlicensed work will not be signed off with a Certificate of Compliance (CoC), which is required proof that the work meets the NZ Building Code.
Important: If you attempt this work yourself and something goes wrong, your home insurance is very likely to be void. Always check your policy.
What a Licensed Gasfitter Will Do
When you hire a licensed gasfitter to install an outdoor BBQ gas point, they will typically:
- Assess your existing gas supply — checking pipe sizing, pressure, and capacity to ensure adding a new outlet won't affect other appliances.
- Plan the route — running new copper or approved flexible pipe from your existing gas line to the outdoor location.
- Install an isolation valve — so you can safely shut off the BBQ point independently.
- Fit a weatherproof outdoor outlet — rated for exterior use and positioned safely away from windows, doors, and ignition sources, in line with NZ Building Code requirements.
- Pressure-test the installation — to confirm there are no leaks before signing off.
- Issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) — the legal document confirming the work meets the NZ Building Code.
Does This Work Require a Building Consent?
This is a common question. In many cases, minor gas fitting work is exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004 — but this depends on the scope of work and your local council's interpretation. Always check with your local council before work begins. Your licensed gasfitter will also be familiar with local requirements and can advise you.
For more on building consents and exemptions, visit MBIE Building Performance.
Natural Gas vs LPG: Does It Matter?
Yes, there are some practical differences:
| Feature | Natural Gas | LPG (Bottled) |
|---|---|---|
| Supply | Reticulated (piped to home) | Cylinder stored on property |
| Outlet type | Fixed piped connection | Fixed piped or flexible hose connection |
| Restricted work? | Yes | Yes |
| Ongoing cost | Monthly bill | Cylinder refills |
| Availability | Main centres only | Nationwide |
With LPG, some homeowners assume that because they can swap a cylinder themselves, they can also run new pipework. This is not the case — any new fixed pipework or outlet is still restricted work regardless of fuel type.
What a Homeowner CAN Legally Do
While you can't do the gas fitting itself, there are things you can legally handle:
- Connecting and disconnecting a BBQ to an existing, already-installed bayonet fitting or outlet (using the flexible hose supplied with the BBQ).
- Swapping LPG cylinders on an existing regulator setup.
- Preparing the area — digging a trench for pipe runs, building a deck or outdoor kitchen structure (subject to any relevant consents).
- Choosing your fittings and outlet style — discuss options with your gasfitter before they start.
Safety First: Key Hazards to Know
⚠️ Safety note: If you ever smell gas outdoors or indoors, do not operate any switches or appliances. Ventilate the area, leave the building, shut off the gas at the meter or cylinder if it is safe to do so, and call your gas supplier or 111 immediately.
For more on gas safety in the home, WorkSafe NZ has useful guidance on hazardous substances and safe work practices.
How Much Does It Cost? (Rough Guide)
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the job, how far the new outlet is from your existing gas supply, and your location. As a very rough guide, a straightforward outdoor BBQ gas point installation might range from a few hundred dollars upward for labour and materials. Get at least two or three quotes from licensed gasfitters to compare.
When to Call a Professional
You should always call a licensed gasfitter for:
- Installing any new gas outlet or point, indoors or outdoors.
- Extending or modifying existing gas pipework.
- Installing or replacing gas appliances (hobs, heaters, hot water systems).
- Any work following a gas leak or suspected fault.
You can verify a gasfitter's licence on the PGDB website before hiring. To find a qualified local gasfitter in your area, search the tradespeople listed on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Sources & Further Reading
- Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — Licence verification and regulations
- MBIE Building Performance — Building consents and the NZ Building Code
- WorkSafe NZ — Gas safety and hazardous substances
- Licensed Building Practitioners — Finding licensed tradespeople
- BRANZ — Building research and best practice guidance