Under-cabinet LED lighting adds both task lighting and ambience to a kitchen, and much of the installation is well within a confident DIYer's reach. The key is understanding exactly where the line sits between what you can do yourself and what must be handled by a licensed electrician under New Zealand law.
Understanding NZ Electrical Rules First
Before you pick up a drill, it's important to know what's restricted electrical work in New Zealand. Under the Electricity Act 1992, any work that involves connecting to your home's fixed wiring — including adding a new circuit, installing a new power outlet, or hardwiring a transformer into the mains — must be carried out by a registered electrician. You can check licensing requirements at the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).
What a homeowner can legally do:
- Plug a low-voltage LED driver/transformer into an existing GPO (general power outlet)
- Attach LED strip lights or puck lights to the underside of cabinets
- Run low-voltage cables (12V or 24V DC) between the driver and the lights
- Replace like-for-like LED globes in existing fittings
If you want a dedicated switched circuit or a hardwired transformer, you'll need a licensed electrician. Always check with WorkSafe NZ if you're unsure about safety obligations.
Planning Your Layout
Good planning saves time and avoids wasted materials.
- Measure your cabinet runs — note the length of each cabinet base where you want lighting.
- Choose your light type — LED strip lights (flexible, sold by the metre) suit long continuous runs; LED puck lights suit individual cabinets or feature areas.
- Pick your colour temperature — 2700–3000K gives a warm white similar to halogen; 4000K is a neutral white that suits modern kitchens and shows food colours accurately.
- Locate your power source — identify the nearest GPO inside or above a cabinet. Many NZ kitchens have a GPO inside the overhead cupboard for rangehood or appliance use.
- Plan cable routing — decide how you'll conceal the low-voltage cable along the cabinet interior or back wall.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| LED strip lights or puck lights | Choose a reputable brand with IP20 rating minimum for dry indoor use |
| LED driver/transformer | Match voltage (12V or 24V) and wattage to your total LED load |
| Mounting clips or adhesive channel | Aluminium extrusion channels give a cleaner finish and help dissipate heat |
| Low-voltage cable | Usually supplied with the kit |
| Drill and bits | For routing cables through cabinet walls |
| Tape measure and pencil | For marking positions |
| Cable clips or staples | To secure low-voltage runs neatly |
| Inline switch (optional) | A plug-in inline switch lets you control lights without touching the GPO |
You'll find LED strip kits and drivers at Bunnings and Mitre 10.
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Turn Off the Power
Switch off the circuit at the switchboard before doing any work near existing wiring or outlets, even if you're only plugging in a transformer. Safety first.
2. Mark and Prepare the Cabinet
Mark a pencil line along the underside of each cabinet, set back 50–80 mm from the front edge. This positions the light where it illuminates the benchtop without being visible from a normal standing position.
3. Install the Aluminium Channel (Recommended)
Snap the aluminium extrusion channel along your pencil line using the supplied screws or strong double-sided tape. Channels protect the strip, improve heat dissipation, and give a professional finish.
4. Cut and Connect the LED Strip
LED strips can be cut at marked intervals (usually every 50–100 mm — check your specific product). Connect strip sections using the manufacturer's connectors or by soldering. Do not cut outside the marked cut points or you may damage the circuit.
5. Route the Low-Voltage Cable
Drill a small hole through the cabinet side or back to route the low-voltage cable from one cabinet to the next, or back to the driver location. Use a cable clip every 300–400 mm to keep runs tidy.
6. Connect to the Driver
Follow the manufacturer's wiring diagram to connect your LED strips to the driver's output terminals. Double-check polarity (positive and negative) before powering up.
7. Plug In and Test
Plug the driver into the GPO and test all sections. Check for any flickering, which can indicate a loose connection or mismatched driver wattage.
8. Fit the Diffuser Cover
Snap the frosted or clear diffuser cover onto the aluminium channel. This softens the light and hides the individual LED dots for a clean result.
Dimming and Smart Controls
Many LED drivers are compatible with inline dimmers or smart plugs. If you want wall-switch dimming integrated into your home's wiring, that work must be done by a licensed electrician. A simpler option is a plug-in smart socket, which lets you control lights via an app or voice assistant without touching fixed wiring.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed electrician if you need:
- A new GPO installed inside or above a cabinet
- A hardwired (mains-connected) transformer or driver
- A dedicated lighting circuit with a wall switch
- Any work inside the switchboard
For the cabinetry side — modifying cabinet interiors, cutting access holes neatly, or fitting new cabinets to accommodate lighting — a qualified cabinet maker can ensure a seamless result. You can find local cabinet makers and electricians on tradedirectory.co.nz.
