In short: no, you cannot legally run a flexible gas hose yourself to a new appliance location in New Zealand — at least not without a licensed gasfitter doing the work and certifying it. Gas work is tightly regulated in NZ for very good reason: an incorrectly installed gas connection can cause leaks, fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Here's what you need to know before you pick up a spanner.
What Counts as Restricted Gas Work in NZ?
Under the Gas Act 1992 and the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006, gasfitting work is restricted work that must be carried out by — or under the direct supervision of — a person licensed by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB).
Restricted gasfitting work includes:
- Installing, altering, or extending any gas piping or fitting (including flexible hose)
- Connecting a new appliance to the gas supply
- Moving an existing gas outlet to a new location
- Commissioning or testing gas appliances
This applies to both natural gas and LPG installations, whether in a house, rental property, or commercial premises.
What About Simply Connecting an Appliance?
You might think plugging a gas hose into an existing bayonet fitting is harmless — and in some cases, disconnecting and reconnecting an appliance at an existing bayonet fitting (like swapping out a gas hob) may be something a competent homeowner can do carefully. However, running a new flexible hose to a new location — even if it's just a metre away — involves extending or altering the gas installation, which is restricted work.
If you're unsure whether your specific task crosses the line, contact the PGDB directly for clarification. Don't guess — the consequences of getting it wrong are serious.
Why the Rules Exist
Flexible gas hose looks simple, but there are real risks if it's installed incorrectly:
- Leaks at fittings due to incorrect thread type, sealant, or torque
- Hose kinking or abrasion leading to failure over time
- Wrong hose type for the gas pressure or appliance
- Inadequate ventilation around the appliance (required under NZ Building Code clause G11 and G12)
- Carbon monoxide build-up from incomplete combustion in a poorly installed setup
The WorkSafe NZ website has useful guidance on gas safety hazards in the home.
What a Licensed Gasfitter Will Do
A licensed gasfitter will:
- Assess whether the existing gas supply has sufficient capacity for the new appliance location
- Select the correct hose type, diameter, and fittings for your gas type and pressure
- Install and pressure-test the connection
- Issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) — a legal document confirming the work meets NZ standards
- Ensure the installation complies with NZS 5261 (the NZ standard for gas installation)
The CoC is important: without it, your home insurance may not cover gas-related damage, and you could face liability issues if you sell the property.
Does This Need a Building Consent?
In many cases, routine gas appliance connections don't require a building consent — they may fall under Schedule 1 exemptions of the Building Act 2004. However, if the work involves structural changes, new penetrations through walls, or significant alterations to the gas system, a consent may be required. Always check with your local council before starting any work. You can find general guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
Rental Properties and Healthy Homes
If you're a landlord, be aware that gas appliances in rental properties must comply with the Healthy Homes Standards. All gas work must be certified, and appliances must be properly maintained. Visit Tenancy Services for the full requirements.
What You CAN Do as a Homeowner
While you can't do the gasfitting work itself, you can:
- Plan the project — decide where you want the appliance and discuss it with a gasfitter
- Prepare the space — clear the area, ensure adequate ventilation is possible
- Source the appliance — purchase the gas hob, heater, or BBQ yourself
- Ask questions — a good gasfitter will explain what they're doing and why
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed gasfitter any time you want to:
- Run a flexible hose to a new location
- Add a new gas outlet or move an existing one
- Connect any new gas appliance
- Investigate a suspected gas leak (if you smell gas, leave the building immediately, don't operate switches, and call your gas supplier or 111)
You can find qualified, licensed gasfitters in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz. Always check that your gasfitter holds a current licence — you can verify this on the PGDB licence register.
Safety note: If you ever smell gas, act immediately. Don't use light switches, phones, or naked flames. Ventilate the area, leave the building, and call your gas retailer's emergency line or 111.
Sources & Further Reading
- Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — licence verification and regulatory information
- WorkSafe NZ – Gas Safety — hazard guidance for gas in the home
- MBIE Building Performance — building consent and NZ Building Code information
- Tenancy Services – Healthy Homes — rental property gas appliance requirements
- Standards NZ – NZS 5261 — the NZ standard for gas installation (available for purchase)