A straightforward gas hob replacement — swapping an old hob for a new one on an existing gas connection — typically takes a licensed gasfitter around 1 to 2 hours. If new gas pipework, a consent, or cabinetry modifications are involved, expect the job to take anywhere from half a day to a full day or longer.
What Affects Installation Time?
Several factors influence how long your gas hob installation will take:
- Replacement vs. new installation — Replacing an existing hob on a live, correctly sized gas line is the quickest scenario. A brand-new gas connection requires running pipework, which adds significant time.
- Hob size and cutout dimensions — If the new hob is a different size to the old one, the benchtop cutout may need to be modified. This can involve a joiner or the gasfitter doing additional work.
- Type of gas supply — Whether you're on natural gas (reticulated mains) or LPG (bottled gas) can affect the complexity of the connection and regulator setup.
- Location of the gas meter or cylinder — The further the hob is from the gas supply, the more pipework is needed.
- Ventilation requirements — Under the NZ Building Code, gas appliances must have adequate ventilation. If your kitchen doesn't meet the requirements, additional work may be needed before the hob can be commissioned.
- Building consent — In some cases, particularly for new gas installations, a building consent may be required. Your gasfitter and local council can advise. Always confirm consent requirements with your council before work begins.
Typical Timeframes at a Glance
| Scenario | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Like-for-like hob replacement, same cutout size | 1–2 hours |
| Replacement with minor cutout modification | 2–4 hours |
| New hob, existing gas line nearby | 3–5 hours |
| New hob, new gas pipework required | Half to full day+ |
| New installation requiring building consent | Allow extra days for consent processing |
These are general guides only. Your gasfitter will give you a more accurate estimate after assessing the site.
What Happens During the Installation?
A licensed gasfitter will typically:
- Isolate the gas supply and confirm the area is safe to work in.
- Remove the old hob (if replacing) and check the existing pipework and fittings.
- Modify the benchtop cutout if needed, or coordinate with a joiner.
- Connect the new hob to the gas supply using approved fittings and flexible connectors.
- Pressure-test the installation to check for leaks — this is a mandatory step.
- Commission the appliance, checking ignition, flame quality, and burner operation.
- Issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) — this is a legal requirement for all gasfitting work in New Zealand.
This Is Restricted Work — Always Use a Licensed Gasfitter
In New Zealand, connecting any gas appliance — including a hob — to a gas supply is restricted work under the Gas Act 1992. It must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). Attempting to do this work yourself is illegal and extremely dangerous.
As a homeowner, you may be able to:
- Move furniture or clear the workspace before the gasfitter arrives.
- Arrange for a joiner to modify the benchtop cutout (though some gasfitters handle this themselves).
- Purchase the hob in advance — just confirm the model and dimensions with your gasfitter first.
You must not connect, disconnect, or modify any gas pipework or fittings yourself.
Safety note: Gas leaks can cause fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a hob if you smell gas. Evacuate, ventilate, and call your gas supplier or 111 immediately.
Tips to Speed Up the Job
- Measure your existing cutout and share the dimensions with your gasfitter before purchasing a new hob.
- Check your gas type (natural gas or LPG) and confirm the new hob is compatible — most hobs can be converted, but this takes extra time.
- Clear the workspace around the hob and under the bench before your gasfitter arrives.
- Ask about consent early — if a consent is needed, getting it sorted before booking the gasfitter avoids delays.
When to Call a Professional
Always call a licensed gasfitter for any gas hob installation, replacement, or repair. This is non-negotiable under NZ law. You can find qualified, local gasfitters on tradedirectory.co.nz — look for someone who is PGDB-registered and can issue a Certificate of Compliance on completion.
If your installation also involves new electrical work (such as a rangehood or power outlet), you'll need a licensed electrician registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) for that portion of the work.
Sources & Further Reading
- Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — verify your gasfitter's licence
- MBIE Building Performance — Building Code — consent requirements and gas appliance standards
- WorkSafe NZ — Gas Safety — gas safety obligations
- BRANZ — building research and best practice guidance
- Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) — for any associated electrical work
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