Reconnecting a gas hob after a kitchen benchtop replacement might seem straightforward, but in New Zealand it is legally restricted work — meaning only a licensed gasfitter is allowed to disconnect and reconnect the gas supply. This isn't just red tape; gas leaks can cause fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Understanding what you can and can't do yourself will keep your project on track and your household safe.
Why Gas Reconnection Is Restricted Work in NZ
Under the Gas Act 1992 and regulations administered by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB), any work that involves connecting or disconnecting gas appliances from the gas supply is restricted to licensed gasfitters. This applies whether your hob runs on natural gas or LPG.
If an unlicensed person carries out this work and something goes wrong — a leak, a fire, or worse — your home insurance may be void and you could face legal liability. Always ask your gasfitter for a Certificate of Compliance (CoC), which they are required to issue after completing restricted gas work.
What a Homeowner Can Legally Do
While you cannot touch the gas connection itself, there is plenty you can do to prepare and save on labour costs:
- Remove the old hob from the benchtop (the physical lifting out, not disconnecting the gas).
- Prepare the cutout in the new benchtop to the hob manufacturer's specified dimensions.
- Position the new hob in the cutout ready for the gasfitter to connect.
- Clean up the area and ensure clear access for the tradesperson.
- Check the hob's installation manual for any specific requirements around clearances, ventilation, or flexible hose specifications — your gasfitter will need this information.
If your hob also has an electric ignition or rangehood wiring, note that electrical connections are similarly restricted. Only a registered electrician (registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board) may carry out electrical wiring work.
What the Licensed Gasfitter Will Do
When you book a licensed gasfitter for the reconnection, here is what the job typically involves:
- Isolating the gas supply at the nearest isolation valve before any work begins.
- Inspecting the existing flexible hose — these have a limited service life and may need replacing if they are old, kinked, or damaged. In NZ, flexible hoses must comply with AS/NZS 1869 and are generally recommended for replacement every 5–10 years (check with your gasfitter).
- Connecting the hob to the gas supply using the correct fittings and an approved flexible connector.
- Pressure testing the connection to confirm there are no leaks — typically using a manometer or leak detection fluid.
- Commissioning the hob — lighting each burner, checking flame appearance, and confirming correct gas pressure.
- Issuing a Certificate of Compliance, which you should keep with your home records.
Flexible Hose: A Critical Safety Check
One of the most important parts of a gas hob reconnection is the flexible gas hose. These corrugated stainless steel or rubber-sheathed connectors deteriorate over time and are a common source of gas leaks. When your benchtop is being replaced, it is an ideal opportunity to have the hose inspected or replaced as a matter of course. Ask your gasfitter about this specifically — it is a small additional cost that can prevent a serious hazard.
LPG vs Natural Gas: Does It Matter?
Yes — LPG (bottled gas) and natural gas operate at different pressures and require different jet sizes in the burners. Most hobs are supplied set up for one fuel type, with a conversion kit available for the other. If you are switching fuel types during your kitchen renovation, make sure you tell your gasfitter in advance. They will need to convert the hob and ensure the regulator and hose are rated for the correct gas type. Never attempt a fuel-type conversion yourself.
Ventilation and the NZ Building Code
The NZ Building Code Clause G11 (Gas as an Energy Source) — note: confirm the exact clause reference with MBIE or your gasfitter, as gas installations may be covered under a different clause depending on the edition of the Building Code in force sets requirements for gas appliance installations, including adequate ventilation. If your kitchen renovation has changed the layout significantly — for example, enclosing a previously open space — your gasfitter may flag ventilation concerns. It is worth checking with your local council whether any building consent is required for the benchtop replacement itself, particularly if structural changes are involved. You can find guidance on consent requirements at MBIE Building Performance.
When to Call a Professional
The answer here is simple: call a licensed gasfitter before any gas connection work begins. Do not attempt to disconnect or reconnect the gas flexible hose yourself, even if it looks like a simple push-fit or threaded connection. The risks — gas leaks, fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide exposure — are serious and the legal consequences of unlicensed work are significant.
A good gasfitter will also spot other issues while they are there, such as an ageing isolation valve or a hose that is routed too close to a heat source.
You can find qualified, local gasfitters on tradedirectory.co.nz — look for someone who is registered with the PGDB and ask to see their licence before work begins. You can verify a gasfitter's licence on the PGDB website.
Safety Reminder
If at any point during your renovation you smell gas:
- Do not operate any switches or appliances.
- Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors.
- Evacuate and call your gas supplier or 111 if you suspect a serious leak.
- Do not re-enter until the area has been declared safe.
WorkSafe NZ has further guidance on gas safety in the home.
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