EV Charger Installation Cost NZ 2025: Complete Guide
Quick Answer
EV charger installation in New Zealand costs $1,200-2,500 for a standard Level 2 home charger. Basic Level 1 installation costs $800-1,200. Level 2 (7.4kW) installation costs $1,500-2,500. Add $1,500-3,000 for switchboard upgrades if required. Installation takes 3-6 hours. Government rebates may reduce costs by $300-500.
EV Charger Installation Cost Breakdown 2025
| Charger Type | Installation Cost | Charging Speed | Charge Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Portable) | $800-1,200 | 2.3kW | 8-12 hours |
| Level 2 (Home Wall) | $1,500-2,500 | 7.4kW | 3-5 hours |
| Level 2 (22kW 3-Phase) | $2,500-4,000 | 22kW | 1-2 hours |
| Commercial/DC Fast | $15,000-50,000 | 50-350kW | 15-45 min |
Understanding EV Charger Types in New Zealand
Level 1 Charging (2.3kW - Standard Power)
Level 1 chargers plug into standard 230V 10A household sockets. They're the slowest but most affordable option.
Level 1 Specifications:
- ✓ Power: 2.3kW (230V, 10A)
- ✓ Charging Speed: 10-15km range per hour
- ✓ Full Charge: 8-12 hours (typical 40kWh battery)
- ✓ Installation: $800-1,200 (may use existing socket)
- ✓ Best For: Overnight charging, low daily mileage (under 50km/day)
- ✓ Electrical Requirements: Standard 10A circuit, no upgrades usually needed
Level 2 Charging (7.4kW - Recommended for Most Homes)
Level 2 chargers are the most popular choice for New Zealand homes. They require a dedicated circuit but charge 3x faster than Level 1.
Level 2 Specifications:
- ✓ Power: 7.4kW (230V, 32A single-phase)
- ✓ Charging Speed: 35-45km range per hour
- ✓ Full Charge: 3-5 hours (typical 40kWh battery)
- ✓ Installation: $1,500-2,500
- ✓ Best For: Daily home charging, most EV owners
- ✓ Electrical Requirements: Dedicated 32A circuit, may require switchboard upgrade
Level 2 Three-Phase (22kW - High-Performance)
Available for homes with three-phase power. Faster charging but higher installation cost.
- Power: 22kW (400V, 32A three-phase)
- Charging Speed: 100-130km range per hour
- Full Charge: 1-2 hours
- Installation: $2,500-4,000
- Requirement: Three-phase power supply (not available in all homes)
- Best For: High daily mileage, multiple EVs, businesses
What's Included in EV Charger Installation Costs?
1. Charger Unit Cost
- Level 1 Portable Charger: $400-800 (e.g., Schneider EVlink Portable)
- Level 2 Wall Charger: $1,200-2,000 (e.g., Tesla Wall Connector, JuiceBox)
- Smart Chargers (WiFi/App Control): $1,500-2,500
- Commercial Chargers: $3,000-8,000+ per unit
2. Electrician Labour
- Simple Installation: $400-800 (2-4 hours at $80-120/hour)
- Standard Installation: $600-1,200 (4-6 hours)
- Complex Installation: $1,000-2,000 (6-10 hours plus cable runs)
- EWRB Registration Required: Only use certified electricians for EV charger work
3. Electrical Upgrades (If Required)
| Upgrade Type | Cost Range | When Required |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Circuit Installation | $300-800 | All Level 2 chargers |
| Switchboard Upgrade | $1,500-3,000 | Switchboards over 25 years old |
| Main Fuse Upgrade (63A to 80A) | $500-1,200 | Insufficient capacity |
| Underground Cable Run (10-20m) | $800-2,000 | Garage/carport far from house |
| Three-Phase Power Installation | $3,000-8,000 | 22kW charger (if not already 3-phase) |
4. Additional Costs
- Certificate of Compliance: Included in electrician cost (legally required)
- Power Company Approval: Free-$200 (for capacity increases)
- Trenching/Conduit: $15-30 per metre for underground runs
- Wall Mounting/Post Installation: $150-400
- Smart Features/WiFi Setup: $100-300
- Load Management System: $500-1,500 (for multiple chargers)
Electrical Requirements for EV Chargers
Assessing Your Home's Electrical Capacity
Before installing an EV charger, your electrician will assess:
- Main Fuse Rating: Most NZ homes have 63A or 80A. Level 2 chargers draw 32A continuous load. You need spare capacity beyond normal household consumption (typically 20-30A during peak use).
- Switchboard Condition: Switchboards over 25 years old usually need upgrading. Modern chargers require RCD protection and dedicated circuit breakers.
- Cable Distance: Long cable runs (over 20m) from switchboard to charger location may require larger cables (6mm² or 10mm²) to prevent voltage drop.
- Existing Electrical Load: Homes with heat pumps, hot water cylinders, and induction cooktops may have insufficient spare capacity without upgrades.
Do You Need a Switchboard Upgrade?
You'll Likely Need a Switchboard Upgrade If:
- ✓ Your home was built before 2000
- ✓ Switchboard has ceramic fuses instead of circuit breakers
- ✓ Main fuse is 40A or 50A (too small for EV charger)
- ✓ No spare ways (slots) for additional circuit breakers
- ✓ Lacks RCD (safety switch) protection
- ✓ You experience frequent circuit trips with current appliances
Switchboard upgrades add $1,500-3,000 to your total cost. See our switchboard upgrade guide for details.
EV Charger Installation Process & Timeline
Step 1: Initial Assessment (Week 1)
- Day 1-2: Contact 3 EWRB registered electricians for quotes
- Day 3-5: Electricians visit to assess electrical system and charger location
- Day 6-7: Receive detailed written quotes including all upgrades needed
Step 2: Planning & Approvals (Week 2)
- Day 8-10: Choose electrician, select charger model
- Day 11-12: Electrician orders charger and materials
- Day 13-14: Obtain power company approval if main fuse upgrade required
Step 3: Electrical Upgrades (Week 3, if required)
- Day 15: Switchboard upgrade (if needed) - 4-6 hours
- Day 16-17: Install dedicated circuit, run cables to charger location
- Day 18: Trenching and conduit work for underground cable runs
Step 4: Charger Installation (Week 3-4)
- Hour 0-1: Mount charger on wall or post, connect to dedicated circuit
- Hour 1-2: Wire charger, test connections, verify voltage and current
- Hour 2-3: Commission charger, configure settings, test with vehicle
- Hour 3-4: Final safety checks, issue Certificate of Compliance
Step 5: Post-Installation
- Same Day: Electrician demonstrates charger operation and app setup
- Week 4: Certificate lodged with council
- Month 1: Monitor first billing cycle for energy costs
Government Rebates & Incentives for EV Chargers
Current EV Charger Rebates in New Zealand (2025)
Available Rebate Programmes:
1. Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF)
- • Workplace Chargers: Up to 75% of installation costs (max $7,500 per charger)
- • Multi-Unit Dwellings: Up to 50% of costs (apartments, townhouses)
- • Eligibility: Businesses, body corporates, councils
- • Apply: EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority)
2. Local Council Rebates
- • Auckland Council: $500 residential charger rebate (limited fund)
- • Wellington Council: Up to $400 for home chargers
- • Christchurch: $300 rebate for smart chargers
- • Check: Contact your local council for current programmes
3. Energy Retailer Incentives
- • Contact Energy: Free smart charger with EV electricity plan
- • Mercury: $200 credit on EV charging plan sign-up
- • Special Rates: Off-peak EV charging rates (9pm-7am) at 50-70% discount
How to Apply for EV Charger Rebates
- Check Eligibility: Visit EECA website and your council's sustainability page
- Get Quotes First: Most rebates require quotes from EWRB registered electricians
- Apply Before Installation: Many programmes require pre-approval
- Keep All Receipts: You'll need invoices and Certificate of Compliance
- Submit Within Timeframe: Usually 30-90 days after installation
Regional EV Charger Installation Costs
Costs by Major New Zealand Cities
- Auckland: $1,800-2,800 (Level 2)
Higher electrician rates, but more competition. Good rebate availability. - Wellington: $1,700-2,600
Earthquake compliance adds $100-200. Council rebates available. - Christchurch: $1,600-2,400
Competitive pricing. Many electricians experienced with EV chargers. - Hamilton/Tauranga: $1,500-2,300
Lower labour costs than major cities. Good availability. - Dunedin/Regional: $1,500-2,500
Similar pricing, but may have travel charges. Fewer EV-specialist electricians.
Choosing the Right EV Charger for Your Home
Top EV Charger Brands in New Zealand
| Charger Brand | Power Options | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Wall Connector | 7.4kW - 22kW | $800-1,200 | Tesla owners (works with all EVs) |
| Schneider EVlink | 3.7kW - 22kW | $1,200-2,000 | Smart features, app control |
| JuiceBox (Enel X) | 7.4kW - 11kW | $1,000-1,600 | WiFi connectivity, scheduling |
| Zappi (myenergi) | 7.4kW | $1,400-1,800 | Solar integration, eco mode |
| ABB Terra AC | 7.4kW - 22kW | $1,500-2,200 | Commercial/durability |
Key Features to Consider
- Smart Charging: WiFi/app control for scheduling, monitoring, and off-peak charging ($200-400 premium)
- Solar Integration: Use excess solar power for charging (Zappi, SolarEdge) - saves 30-50% on charging costs
- Load Management: Prevents overloading when other appliances run simultaneously ($150-300)
- Tethered vs Untethered: Built-in cable ($100-200 extra) or use your car's cable
- Weather Rating: IP65 rating for outdoor installation (most NZ chargers include this)
- Warranty: 3-5 years standard, 7-10 years for premium brands
Running Costs: How Much Does EV Charging Cost?
Electricity Costs for Home EV Charging
Annual Charging Cost Calculator:
Based on average NZ electricity rates and typical driving patterns:
| Daily Distance | Energy Used | Standard Rate | Off-Peak Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30km/day | 5kWh/day | $550/year | $330/year |
| 50km/day | 8.3kWh/day | $915/year | $550/year |
| 100km/day | 16.7kWh/day | $1,830/year | $1,100/year |
Assumptions: 16.7kWh/100km efficiency, $0.30/kWh standard rate, $0.18/kWh off-peak rate
Cost Comparison: EV vs Petrol
- EV (off-peak charging): $3.00-4.50 per 100km
- Petrol car (8L/100km): $18-22 per 100km at $2.60/L
- Annual Savings (15,000km): $2,000-2,800
- Payback Period: 1-2 years for charger installation costs
How to Save Money on EV Charger Installation
1. Compare Multiple Quotes
EV charger installation quotes can vary by 40-60% between electricians. Get at least 3 written quotes that clearly itemise charger cost, labour, and electrical upgrades.
2. Bundle with Other Electrical Work
Planning a switchboard upgrade or solar panel installation? Combine projects to save on callout fees and shared electrical work. You could save $300-600 on installation costs.
3. Choose Off-Peak Installation
Schedule installation during business hours (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm). Weekend or after-hours installation costs 30-50% more in labour charges.
4. Plan Charger Location Strategically
Install your charger as close to the switchboard as possible. Every 10 metres of cable run adds $300-600 to installation costs. If garage is far from house, consider a sub-board closer to charger location.
5. Take Advantage of Rebates
- Apply for council rebates: $300-500 savings
- Switch to EV-friendly electricity plan: Save 30-50% on charging costs
- Business/workplace installation: LETF rebate covers up to 75%
6. Consider Level 1 for Low-Mileage Drivers
If you drive under 50km per day and can charge overnight, a Level 1 charger ($800-1,200) may be sufficient. You'll save $700-1,300 compared to Level 2 installation.
Common EV Charger Installation Issues
Insufficient Electrical Capacity
Problem: Older homes (pre-2000) often have 40A or 50A main fuses, insufficient for EV charger plus normal household load.
Solution: Upgrade to 63A or 80A main fuse ($500-1,200) and potentially switchboard ($1,500-3,000).
Prevention: Have electrician assess capacity before purchasing charger.
Long Cable Distance
Problem: Garage or carport is 30+ metres from switchboard.
Solution: Install sub-board closer to charger location ($800-1,500) or upgrade to larger cable (10mm²) for long run ($15-30/metre).
Alternative: Portable Level 1 charger if you have power socket in garage.
Shared Dwelling Challenges
Problem: Apartment or unit with shared power supply.
Solution: Apply for LETF multi-unit dwelling rebate. May require load management system or separate metering ($500-2,000).
Body Corporate: Obtain approval before installation (provide compliance documentation).
Three-Phase Availability
Problem: Want 22kW charger but home has single-phase power only.
Solution: Three-phase installation costs $3,000-8,000. Usually not cost-effective for residential unless already planned.
Alternative: 7.4kW single-phase charger meets most residential needs.
Questions to Ask Your Electrician
- Are you EWRB registered with EV charger installation experience? (Verify at ewrb.govt.nz)
- What's the total installed cost including all electrical upgrades?
- Do I need a switchboard upgrade for this charger?
- What's the maximum charging speed my electrical system can support?
- Which charger brands do you recommend and why?
- How long will the installation take?
- Will you provide Certificate of Compliance? (Legally required)
- What's included in your warranty?
- Can the charger integrate with solar panels if I add them later?
- Do you help with rebate applications?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does EV charger installation cost in New Zealand?
EV charger installation in New Zealand costs $1,200-2,500 on average. Basic Level 1 charger installation costs $800-1,200. Level 2 home charger installation (most common) costs $1,500-2,500. Commercial installation ranges from $3,000-8,000. Costs include electrician labour, charger unit, electrical upgrades, and compliance certification.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers?
Level 1 chargers use standard 230V 10A household power and charge at 2.3kW (8-12 hours for full charge). Level 2 chargers require dedicated 230V 32A circuit and charge at 7.4kW (3-5 hours for full charge). Level 2 is recommended for daily use, while Level 1 suits occasional charging or overnight top-ups.
Can I get a government rebate for EV charger installation in NZ?
Yes, the Low Emission Transport Fund may provide rebates for workplace and multi-unit dwelling EV chargers. Residential rebates vary by region - some councils offer grants up to $500. Contact your local council and check EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) for current rebate programmes.
Do I need to upgrade my switchboard for an EV charger?
Most homes require a switchboard upgrade for Level 2 EV chargers. Level 2 chargers need a dedicated 32A circuit, and older switchboards (pre-2000) typically lack capacity. Switchboard upgrades cost $1,500-3,000. An EWRB registered electrician will assess your electrical system and advise on necessary upgrades.
How long does EV charger installation take?
EV charger installation takes 3-6 hours for standard installations. Simple installations (charger near switchboard, no upgrades needed) take 2-3 hours. Complex installations requiring switchboard upgrades or long cable runs take 6-8 hours. Installation is typically completed in one day.
Get Free EV Charger Installation Quotes
Ready to install an EV charger at your home? Connect with up to 3 EWRB registered electricians experienced in EV charger installation. Compare quotes, check qualifications, and choose the best installer for your needs.