Power Plugs & Voltage in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the standard voltage is 230V at 50Hz, and plug type I is used.

Plug adapter
Yes — needed

Your Type A / Type B plugs don't fit New Zealand's Type I sockets. Pack a plug adapter.

Voltage
120V → 230V

New Zealand runs much higher than home. A single-voltage 120V appliance can be damaged — you'd need a voltage converter. Dual-voltage devices (100–240V) are still fine.

Check your charger Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (look for “INPUT: 100–240V” on the label). Those only ever need a plug adapter, never a voltage converter. High-wattage items with heating elements (hair dryers, straighteners, kettles) are the usual exception.New Zealand mains: 230V, 50 Hz.

Note Type I, identical to Australia — no adapter needed between the two countries.

Plug type in New Zealand

IType I

2-3 flat pins in a V-shape (Australia / China / Argentina)

Before you pack a converter

Many modern chargers, laptops, phones and cameras are dual-voltage: their label reads INPUT: 100–240V. Those work anywhere in the world with just a plug adapter — no voltage converter needed. Only single-voltage, high-wattage devices (hair dryers, travel kettles, straighteners) are a real concern in New Zealand’s 230V supply. Always check the label on your own device.

How to check what you need for New Zealand

  1. 01 Pick your home country in the checker above.
  2. 02 See instantly whether your plugs fit New Zealand’s Type I sockets, and whether the 230V supply is a concern.
  3. 03 Read the label on each device — 100–240V means a plug adapter is all you need.

Frequently asked questions

What plug type is used in New Zealand?

New Zealand uses Type I plug. Type I, identical to Australia — no adapter needed between the two countries.

What voltage is New Zealand?

The standard mains voltage in New Zealand is 230V at 50Hz. Most modern chargers and laptops are dual-voltage (100–240V) and work fine; single-voltage appliances from a country with very different voltage may need a converter.

Do I need an adapter for New Zealand from the US?

Yes. US plugs (Type A/B) don't fit New Zealand's Type I sockets, so you'll need a plug adapter. The US is 120V and New Zealand is 230V, so single-voltage US appliances may also need a voltage converter. Use the checker above for your exact home country.

Do I need an adapter for New Zealand from the UK?

Yes. UK Type G plugs don't fit New Zealand's Type I sockets, so you'll need a plug adapter. Voltage is 230V, the same as the UK, so no converter is needed.

Plugs & voltage in Asia-Pacific