All 22 electricity retailers in New Zealand

Switching electricity providers in New Zealand is quick and straightforward. Once you sign up with your new retailer, the switch takes a few business days up to around two weeks. Your electricity supply is never interrupted — the new supplier coordinates with the old one to transfer your account.

If you have an outstanding balance with your previous electricity supplier, you cannot avoid payment by switching. The old supplier may chase the debt through reminders or debt collection. You will need to settle any overdue charges to keep a clean payment record for future accounts.

Most New Zealand electricity providers do not charge exit fees on standard residential plans. However, some fixed-term and promotional plans include early-exit fees, so always check the terms of your current contract before signing up with a new retailer.

Yes, you can switch electricity suppliers while on a fixed-term contract. Some retailers include a break fee that applies if you terminate before the term ends. Read the small print, and weigh the break fee against the savings on your new plan.

There is no single cheapest retailer: it depends on where you live, how much power you use, and whether you qualify for a low-user tariff. Independents like Electric Kiwi, Octopus Energy and Contact typically appear near the top.

Meridian Energy and Mercury generate from hydro, wind and geothermal only. Ecotricity is the only Toitū climate-positive certified retailer. Mercury-owned Powershop is also fully renewable.