YouTube tutorials and home renovation shows make Kiwis want to do everything themselves—even electrical work. But New Zealand law draws clear lines when it comes to your home's wiring, outlets, lighting, and circuits. Messing up doesn't just cancel insurance—it can put lives at risk.

So, what electrical work can you do yourself in NZ? And when should you put down the tools and ring a registered electrician? This article will break down the legal limits of DIY electrical jobs, the dangers of doing unlicensed work, and how to tell when you need to bring in experts like the team at Mako Electrical.

Getting to Grips with NZ's Electrical Safety Rules

New Zealand has rules for all electrical work under the Electricity Act 1992 and Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010. WorkSafe New Zealand makes sure these laws are followed keeping workplaces and homes safe from electrical dangers.

Electricians with licenses can do most electrical jobs. This makes sure installations and fixes meet safety rules, follow codes, and don't create fire or shock risks.

Doing unlicensed work on your home's electrical system isn't just against the law—it's dangerous.

What Can You Fix Yourself Then?

The quick answer: not much.

Homeowners can tackle a handful of basic electrical tasks on their own—as long as they stick to the instructions and use safety-approved materials. These jobs must not touch the house's permanent wiring.

Here are some examples of DIY tasks you can do:

Swap out a blown fuse or reset a tripped circuit breaker
Switch light bulbs
Attach a plug to a flexible appliance cord (such as a lamp)
Replace a fuse wire
Clean and maintain appliances (without taking them apart)

Even these simple jobs need close attention to safety, and any work should avoid exposing live wires.

If you're not sure whether something is allowed, your best bet is to ask a licensed expert like the certified electricians at Mako Electrical in Nelson.

Common Tasks You Can't Do Yourself

You might think putting in a new power outlet or changing your bathroom lights is simple—but in New Zealand licensed electricians can do this kind of work. Here's what you must not do unless you have the right license:

Put in or move power points or light switches
Switch out fixed wiring or run new cables
Set up light fixtures connected to fixed wiring
Hook up or unhook permanent appliances like ovens or heaters
Change your switchboard or circuit breaker panel
Work close to the mains power connection or meter

If you try any of these, you could face legal trouble, lose your insurance, and get hurt.

Why Are the Rules So Tough?

Electricity isn't something you should mess with. installed electrical parts can start house fires, shock people, and even kill. New Zealand's government has strict rules to make sure every electrical job - from new construction to home updates - gets done right the first time.

You might save some money by doing it yourself, but a mistake could change your life forever.

Even worse, if a fire or injury happens because of illegal DIY work, your insurance might not pay for the damage, and you could be on the hook .

What a Licensed Electrician Does

A skilled electrician doesn't just "hook up wires" - they know how to work with your home's entire electrical system. This includes:

Getting a handle on load balancing
Finding your way through NZ building code rules
Making sure work gets the final inspection thumbs-up
Handing over safety certificates and inspection records

At Mako Electrical, our certified electricians have know-how in home and business projects all over Nelson. If you're putting up a new building fixing up an old one, or making things better, we make sure everything's done right and by the book.

Times When You Have to Hire a Certified Electrician

Anytime you're changing the permanent electrical setup in your home, you have to bring in a certified electrician. This covers:

Renovating your kitchen or bathroom
Adding power outlets or changing their location
Putting in LED lights or downlights
Upgrading the switchboard
Wiring outdoors for spas, sheds, or outside lights
Setting up heat pumps or EV chargers

You'll also need official papers like a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) or Electrical Safety Certificate (ESC). a licensed electrician can give you these.

Thinking About Renovations or Upgrades?

When you touch wiring even for simple changes, you need a license. If you're planning a project, our Mako Electrical team can work with your builder. We'll make sure your wiring fits in well, meets all rules, and is ready for the future.

You should also read our article about Scheduling Your Electrician During a Renovation to prevent expensive delays.

Stay Compliant, Stay Safe

Many people underestimate the dangers of electrical work. But following NZ regulations doesn't just help you avoid fines—it protects your home, family, and future.

At Mako Electrical, we provide:

Free estimates for all electrical tasks
Skilled certified electricians in Nelson and nearby areas
Clear communication throughout the process
Work that meets all NZ code standards

If you're not sure whether you can do a job yourself or if you need a qualified electrician, get in touch with us—it's smarter to be cautious.

CONCLUSION

While fixing things around the house feels good, electrical work requires professional expertise. New Zealand laws define the limits, and for good reason—safety and compliance are crucial.

If you're unsure, Mako Electrical stands ready to assist. Whether you need a brief inspection complete rewiring, or fresh installation, our skilled team guarantees quality work—every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. You break the law if you install or change any part of your home's fixed wiring without a licensed electrician.
You might get fined, void your insurance, or face criminal charges if someone gets hurt or property gets damaged.
Yes, but if you don't touch the wiring inside. If you're not sure, it's best to call a pro.
Yes. Most jobs require a Certificate of Compliance or Electrical Safety Certificate.
Ask them for their license number or look them up on the Electrical Workers Registration Board.
No. certified professionals can handle the electrical and refrigerant parts.

What Electrical Work Can You DIY in NZ?