Swapping out an old gas hob or installing a brand-new one might look straightforward, but in New Zealand the law is clear: connecting any appliance to the gas supply is restricted work that must be carried out by a licensed professional. Understanding exactly where the line sits — and why it exists — can save you from a hefty fine, a voided insurance policy, or worse, a dangerous gas leak in your home.
What the Law Says About Gas Work in NZ
Under the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006, all gasfitting work in New Zealand is regulated by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). The Act defines restricted gasfitting work as any work that involves connecting, disconnecting, altering, or testing gas pipework or appliances. This includes:
- Connecting a gas hob to the gas supply line
- Disconnecting the existing hob from the gas supply
- Modifying or extending gas pipework in the kitchen
- Pressure-testing the gas system after installation
- Issuing a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for the completed work
Only a licensed gasfitter — or a person working under direct supervision of one — may legally carry out these tasks. Doing this work yourself is not just inadvisable; it is illegal and can result in significant fines.
What Can a Homeowner Do Themselves?
While the gas connection itself is off-limits, there are parts of a hob installation that a competent DIYer can handle:
- Removing the old hob from the benchtop (once the gas has been disconnected by a licensed gasfitter)
- Preparing the benchtop cutout to suit the new hob's dimensions
- Installing the hob into the cutout and sealing around it
- Connecting the 240V electrical supply to an electric ignition — but only if a safe, existing power outlet is already in place nearby
Important: Even connecting a hob to a standard power point for the ignition spark must comply with NZ electrical regulations. If new wiring or a new outlet is required, that is restricted electrical work requiring a registered electrician (see EWRB).
In short: you can do the carpentry and bench work, but leave anything involving the gas line to the professionals.
Why This Rule Exists — The Real Risks
Gas leaks are not always obvious. Natural gas and LPG are both highly flammable, and even a small, slow leak can accumulate to dangerous concentrations before you smell anything. Risks from unlicensed gas work include:
- Fire or explosion from ignition of leaked gas
- Carbon monoxide poisoning from incomplete combustion
- Insurance claims being declined if unlicensed work is found to be the cause of damage
- Liability issues when selling your home, as unpermitted work must be disclosed
WorkSafe NZ and the PGDB take these risks seriously, which is why the licensing regime exists.
Natural Gas vs LPG — Does It Matter?
Both reticulated natural gas and bottled LPG (liquid petroleum gas) are covered by the same restricted-work rules. However, there are some practical differences worth knowing:
| Feature | Natural Gas | LPG (Bottled) |
|---|---|---|
| Supply type | Piped from street | Cylinder (45 kg or smaller) |
| Hob connection | Fixed pipework | Flexible hose to regulator |
| Gasfitter required? | Yes | Yes |
| Cylinder swap (same size) | N/A | Homeowner can swap cylinder |
| Pressure testing required? | Yes | Yes |
Note that while you can swap an LPG cylinder yourself, connecting the regulator and hose to an appliance still constitutes restricted work.
What to Expect When You Hire a Gasfitter
A licensed gasfitter will typically:
- Disconnect the old appliance safely and cap the gas line
- Confirm the new hob is compatible with your gas type and pressure
- Connect the new hob using approved fittings and flexible connectors
- Pressure-test the connections to confirm there are no leaks
- Commission the appliance and check burner operation
- Issue a Certificate of Compliance, which you should keep with your home records
As a rough guide, a straightforward hob swap-out is generally a short job for an experienced gasfitter, though call-out fees and labour rates vary by region. Always get a quote upfront.
Choosing the Right Hob
Before booking a gasfitter, make sure your new hob is:
- Approved for use in NZ and compatible with your gas type (natural gas or LPG — many hobs can be converted with a jet kit)
- The correct size for your existing or planned benchtop cutout
- Supplied with NZ-compliant fittings
Major hardware retailers like Bunnings and Mitre 10 stock a range of gas hobs, and their staff can help confirm compatibility.
When to Call a Professional
You should always call a licensed gasfitter for:
- Any connection or disconnection of a gas appliance
- Any modification to gas pipework
- Suspected gas leaks (in an emergency, leave the building and call your gas supplier or 111)
- Commissioning and testing after installation
You can search for qualified, local 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 website.
Sources & Further Reading
- Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — licence verification and regulatory information
- WorkSafe NZ — Gas Safety — hazard information and safety guidance
- MBIE Building Performance — NZ Building Code and compliance requirements
- EWRB — Electrical Workers Registration Board — for any associated electrical work
- BRANZ — building research and best-practice guidance for NZ homes