In New Zealand, gasfitting is restricted work — meaning it must legally be carried out by a person who holds a current licence issued by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). Attempting gas work yourself or hiring an unlicensed person is not only illegal but can put your household at serious risk of fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Why Gasfitting Is Regulated
Gas installations in NZ are governed by the Gas Act 1992 and associated regulations, as well as the NZ Building Code, which sets minimum performance standards for gas installations under clauses such as G10 (piped services) and G11 (gas as an energy source). The PGDB exists to protect the public by ensuring anyone doing gas work has demonstrated the knowledge and practical skills to do it safely.
The Licensing Framework: How It Works
The PGDB issues licences across several categories. For gasfitting, the main licence types are:
| Licence Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Craftsman Gasfitter | Full scope of gasfitting work; the highest practising licence |
| Journeyman Gasfitter | Qualified to carry out gasfitting work under general supervision |
| Tradesman Gasfitter | An older classification; still recognised for existing licence holders |
| Certifying Gasfitter | Can certify (sign off) completed gasfitting work as compliant |
Only a Certifying Gasfitter can issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) — the document that confirms gas work meets the required standards. Always ask for this certificate when gas work is completed on your property.
Qualifications Required
To become a licensed gasfitter in NZ, a person must typically:
- Complete an apprenticeship (usually around four years) working under a licensed gasfitter
- Achieve the relevant National Certificate or New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying (or an equivalent qualification recognised by the PGDB)
- Pass the PGDB's registration examinations, which test both trade knowledge and practical competency
- Meet fit and proper person requirements set by the PGDB
- Hold current first aid certification (required for ongoing licence renewal in most cases)
The qualification framework has evolved over time, so older tradespeople may hold National Certificates while newer entrants hold New Zealand Certificates under the revised framework. Both are valid provided the licence is current.
Ongoing Licensing and Renewal
Holding a qualification alone is not enough — gasfitters must also:
- Register with the PGDB and hold a current practising licence (renewed annually)
- Complete continuing professional development (CPD) to keep their knowledge up to date
- Carry public liability insurance (strongly recommended and often required by clients)
You can verify whether a gasfitter is currently licensed by searching the public register on the PGDB website. This takes only a minute and is well worth doing before any gas work begins.
What a Licensed Gasfitter Can Do
A licensed gasfitter is qualified to work on:
- Natural gas and LPG installations — pipes, fittings, regulators and meters
- Gas appliances — installation and connection of heaters, cooktops, ovens, hot water systems and fireplaces
- Flues and ventilation associated with gas appliances
- Testing and commissioning of gas systems
- Fault-finding and repairs on existing gas installations
Some gasfitters also hold a combined plumbing and gasfitting licence, which is common in NZ.
What Homeowners Can and Cannot Do
Under NZ law, homeowners cannot carry out gasfitting work themselves, even on their own property. This is different from some other trades where owner-builders have limited rights. Gas work is fully restricted regardless of who owns the property.
What you can do as a homeowner:
- Replace LPG cylinders on a portable appliance (e.g. a BBQ) using the standard POL fitting
- Turn off the gas supply at the meter or cylinder in an emergency
- Report a gas leak — if you smell gas, leave the building, avoid switches and flames, and call your gas supplier or 111 immediately
⚠️ Safety note: Never attempt to repair a gas leak, move a gas meter, or connect any appliance to a fixed gas line yourself. Always call a licensed gasfitter.
When to Call a Professional
You should always engage a licensed gasfitter when:
- Installing or relocating any gas appliance (heater, hob, oven, hot water cylinder)
- Adding or modifying gas pipework anywhere in your home
- Commissioning a new gas connection from the network
- Investigating a suspected gas leak or fault
- Buying or selling a home — a gasfitter can inspect and certify existing installations
For rental properties, landlords also have obligations under the Healthy Homes Standards to ensure heating and ventilation meet minimum requirements, which may involve gas appliance checks.
You can find qualified, licensed gasfitters in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Certifying Plumber
