If your power bill feels like more than you can handle, you're not the only one. Many New Zealanders feel the pinch, especially when the weather turns colder. Here are some places you can turn to for support.

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Support from power companies  

Most power companies have teams or funds in place to help households going through tough times — so make contact as soon as you can.  

Your power company is obligated to help you. If your electricity provider knows you are finding it hard to pay a bill, then they must offer alternative payment options.  

Find out more at Yourpower(external link)

Your rights when power could be disconnected  

Knowing your rights can help protect you and your household if your electricity provider is considering disconnection, especially in situations where timing or medical needs make it more serious.  

  • Your power supplier needs to try and contact you at least five times before they disconnect your power.   
  • If your electricity provider has reached the point of disconnection, they should not do it when it is hard to get re-connected. This means you should not be disconnected just before a weekend, public holiday, early in the morning or late at night.  
  • Your electricity must not be disconnected if you or someone in your house is medically dependent on electricity. That means you need a supply of electricity in your home to stop serious harm.   
  • It is important you tell your electricity provider if you or someone in your house is medically dependent. 

Find out more at the Electricity Authority(external link)

Power Credits Scheme  

Some power companies offer a $110 credit to households on low-use plans as part of a government initiative. You may also be eligible for a second credit if you’ve spoken with a budgeting advisor.  

Contact your energy provider to see if you can receive the credit. 

 

Utilities Disputes Ltd 

If you want to make a formal complaint, Utilities Disputes Ltd (UDL) provides a free and independent dispute resolution service for electricity, gas, telecommunications, and water complaints. Most disputes are resolved through working with all the parties involved. If the parties cannot agree, UDL can issue a decision. 

Visit Utilities Disputes (external link)

EnergyMate  

The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) runs EnergyMate. Households experiencing energy hardship can be referred into the programme by their power company, their local participating budgeting support service, or participating Healthy Homes Initiative support services. An EnergyMate coach will visit you at home, help with contacting your power company and develop an action plan with you to help your household use electricity more efficiently, which can save money.  

Contact your energy provider to see if you can receive the credit, or find our more at EnergyMate.

Visit EnergyMate(external link)

 

  • More support is available

    The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) have put together a resource with lots of details about support available to New Zealand households