Relocating a gas meter is not a DIY job in New Zealand. It is classified as restricted work under the Gas Act 1992, meaning it must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter — and in most cases, coordinated directly with your gas network operator as well. Attempting to move a gas meter yourself is illegal, dangerous, and could void your home insurance.
Why Gas Meter Relocation Is Restricted Work
In New Zealand, any work that involves connecting, disconnecting, or altering gas fittings — including the meter and the pipework attached to it — is restricted work under the Gas Act 1992. Only a person registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) and holding the appropriate gasfitting licence is legally permitted to carry out this work.
The risks are serious: gas leaks can cause explosions, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Even a small error in reconnecting pipework can have life-threatening consequences. This is why the law is strict, and why you should never attempt it yourself regardless of your general DIY confidence.
Who Actually Owns the Gas Meter?
This is an important point many homeowners miss. The gas meter itself is typically owned by your gas network operator (such as Vector, Firstgas, or your local lines company), not by you. This means:
- You cannot simply hire a gasfitter and have the meter moved without the network operator's involvement.
- You need to contact your gas network operator first to request a meter relocation and understand their process and requirements.
- The network operator may send their own approved contractor to disconnect and reconnect the meter, while a licensed gasfitter handles the downstream pipework on your property.
Check your gas bill or meter for your network operator's contact details, or ask your gas retailer.
What the Process Typically Looks Like
While exact processes vary between network operators and regions, a gas meter relocation generally follows these steps:
| Step | Who Does It |
|---|---|
| Contact network operator to request relocation | You (the homeowner) |
| Assess feasibility and approve the move | Network operator |
| Disconnect meter from network supply | Network operator's approved contractor |
| Relocate and modify internal gas pipework | Licensed gasfitter |
| Reconnect meter and pressure-test system | Network operator / licensed gasfitter |
| Issue a Certificate of Compliance | Licensed gasfitter |
Your licensed gasfitter must issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for any restricted gasfitting work they complete. Keep this document — you may need it for insurance purposes or when you sell your home.
Do You Need a Building Consent?
In many cases, relocating a gas meter and associated pipework does not require a building consent, as it may fall under Schedule 1 exemptions of the Building Act 2004. However, this depends on the scope of work and your local council's interpretation. Always check with your local council before starting any work to confirm whether consent is required. Your licensed gasfitter can also advise you on this based on the specifics of your situation.
For guidance on building consent requirements, MBIE Building Performance is a reliable starting point.
What Can a Homeowner Do?
As a homeowner, your role in this process is limited to:
- Contacting your gas network operator to initiate the relocation request.
- Arranging access to your property for the gasfitter and network operator.
- Clearing the area around the existing and proposed meter locations.
- Discussing your requirements and preferred new meter position with the gasfitter.
That's essentially it — and that's by design. Leave the technical work entirely to the licensed professionals.
How Much Does It Cost?
As a rough guide, gas meter relocations can vary considerably in cost depending on the complexity of the pipework, the distance the meter needs to move, and your network operator's fees. Simple relocations might start from a few hundred dollars, while more complex jobs involving significant pipework rerouting could run into the thousands. Get at least two quotes from licensed gasfitters and confirm what the network operator will charge separately.
Safety Note
⚠️ Never tamper with your gas meter, gas pipework, or any gas fitting yourself. If you ever smell gas, leave the building immediately, avoid using light switches or anything that could cause a spark, and call your gas network operator's emergency line or 111. WorkSafe NZ provides guidance on gas safety in the home.
When to Call a Professional
For a gas meter relocation, calling a licensed gasfitter isn't just recommended — it's the law. You can verify that a gasfitter holds a current licence by searching the PGDB register. Look for someone with experience in domestic gas installations and, ideally, familiarity with your network operator's requirements.
A qualified local gasfitter can manage the whole process on your behalf, liaise with the network operator, complete the pipework, and issue your Certificate of Compliance. You can find licensed gasfitters in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.