No, you cannot legally connect or disconnect a gas hob yourself in New Zealand — this is restricted work that must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter. However, there are a few preparation tasks you can do yourself before the professional arrives. Here's what you need to know to stay safe and on the right side of the law.
Why Gas Work Is Restricted in NZ
Under the Gas Act 1992 and its regulations, any work that involves connecting, disconnecting, or altering gas pipework or appliances is classified as restricted work. This applies whether you're using natural gas or LPG. Only a person licensed by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) is legally allowed to perform this work.
The reason is straightforward: incorrectly installed gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning — all of which can be fatal. The PGDB maintains a public register where you can verify that your gasfitter holds a current licence before they start work.
What Counts as Restricted Gas Work?
When replacing a gas hob, the following tasks are restricted work and must be done by a licensed gasfitter:
- Disconnecting the existing hob from the gas supply
- Connecting the new hob to the gas supply (whether hard-piped or via a flexible connector)
- Pressure-testing the gas line after connection
- Adjusting burner jets if converting between natural gas and LPG
- Issuing a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) — which your gasfitter is legally required to provide on completion
Your gasfitter must provide you with a CoC for any restricted gas work. Keep this document safe — you may need it if you sell your home or make an insurance claim.
What Can a Homeowner Do Themselves?
While the gas connections themselves are off-limits, there are some tasks you can legally handle:
- Measuring and planning — check the cutout dimensions of your new hob against your benchtop opening. Many hobs require a specific cutout size, so check the manufacturer's installation guide carefully.
- Cutting or modifying the benchtop opening — enlarging or reshaping the cutout in a timber or laminate benchtop is generally something a competent DIYer can do, though stone or engineered stone benchtops are best left to a stonemason.
- Unpacking and positioning the new hob ready for the gasfitter
- Removing the old hob from the benchtop — but only after a gasfitter has already disconnected the gas supply. Do not attempt to pull the hob out while it is still connected to gas.
If your new hob also has an electric ignition or an electric wok burner, any electrical connections must be handled by a registered electrician — this is also restricted work under the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) rules.
Natural Gas vs LPG — Does It Matter?
Yes, it matters significantly. Gas hobs are factory-set for either natural gas (NG) or LPG, and the burner jets (orifices) are different sizes for each fuel type. Using an LPG hob on natural gas — or vice versa — without converting it is dangerous and will result in poor performance or a hazardous situation.
If you're switching fuel types, your licensed gasfitter will need to convert the hob using the correct jet kit supplied by the manufacturer. Always confirm with your supplier which gas type your hob is configured for before purchasing.
Does Replacing a Gas Hob Need a Building Consent?
In most cases, like-for-like replacement of a gas hob in the same location does not require a building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. However, if you're moving the hob to a new location, altering the gas pipework significantly, or making changes to the benchtop or cabinetry that affect the structure, you should check with your local council. Rules can vary, so it's always worth a quick phone call to confirm. You can find general guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
Ventilation and Safety Considerations
Gas hobs produce combustion byproducts including carbon monoxide, so adequate kitchen ventilation is important. The NZ Building Code clause G11 (Construction and demolition hazards) and general healthy indoor air quality guidance recommend that rangehoods vent to outside where possible. BRANZ has useful guidance on kitchen ventilation best practice.
If you have a rangehood, make sure it's functioning correctly before your new hob is commissioned. If you're a landlord, note that Tenancy Services Healthy Homes standards require adequate ventilation in rental properties.
Choosing a New Gas Hob
When selecting a replacement hob, check:
| Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | NG or LPG — must match your supply |
| Cutout dimensions | Must fit your existing benchtop opening (or plan to modify) |
| Benchtop thickness | Some hobs have minimum/maximum thickness requirements |
| Ignition type | Battery, mains electric, or piezo |
| Wok burner | May require a dedicated electrical circuit |
You can browse gas hob options at Bunnings, Mitre 10, or PlaceMakers, or through specialist appliance retailers.
When to Call a Professional
You should engage a licensed gasfitter for any and all gas connection or disconnection work — full stop. This isn't just best practice, it's the law. A licensed gasfitter will also carry out a pressure test and issue your Certificate of Compliance.
If your new hob requires electrical connections, you'll also need a registered electrician. In many cases, a gasfitter and electrician can coordinate the job together.
You can find qualified, local gasfitters in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz. Always ask to see their PGDB licence number before work begins, and make sure you receive a Certificate of Compliance on completion.