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New Zealand Plugs, outlets & travel adapters
New Zealand uses Type I sockets. The mains supply is 230 V at 50 Hz.
Plugbert's take Type I only. The sockets look mildly alarmed, but they're very dependable.
Do you need a travel adapter for New Zealand?
It depends on where your plugs come from.
🇺🇸 From the United States
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United States (Type A and B) don't fit the Type I sockets in New Zealand. A Type I (Australian) adapter fits the listed socket families there. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
New Zealand uses 230 V, much higher than the 120 V in the United States. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. For single-voltage devices, follow the manufacturer's guidance on conversion; using a suitable local device may be simpler.
United States to New Zealand in full🇬🇧 From the United Kingdom
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United Kingdom (Type G) don't fit the Type I sockets in New Zealand. A Type I (Australian) adapter fits the listed socket families there. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
No voltage converter needed. Both countries use 230 V.
United Kingdom to New Zealand in fullFrom other countries
Somewhere else?
Sockets you'll find in New Zealand
What to expect in New Zealand
Angled pins, as in Australia
Education New Zealand identifies Type I outlets, also used in Australia. The two power pins are angled; a grounded design adds an earth pin. Ordinary Australian plugs of the corresponding design can fit directly. US, UK and continental European visitors need a suitable adapter.
For grounded equipment, choose a grounded New Zealand Type I adapter that accepts your home plug and maintains earth continuity. Electrical Safety First also describes a two-pin version; that cannot provide earth to equipment requiring it.
Why some travel information says 240 V
Our facts use Electrical Safety First's 230 V nominal supply at 50 Hz. Education New Zealand's preparation page uses 240 V, 50 Hz wording. Those descriptions do not establish different regional supplies. Check the device's supported range; if compatibility hinges on the exact voltage, confirm the supply and manufacturer guidance before use.
A charger labelled 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz includes both published figures. A 120 V-only US device does not become suitable through a plug adapter.
Adding New Zealand to an Australian trip
Check your existing adapter's documentation for both destinations before buying another. A universal adapter needs the actual Type I accessory or output, support for your home plug, appropriate grounding and sufficient rated load. Read the Australian guide and check each device's input label, especially heating equipment.
Will your devices work in New Zealand?
Sockets in New Zealand supply 230 V. Find the "input" line on each device or its charger. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. Check that the input frequency also covers 50 Hz. An adapter changes the plug shape, not the voltage or frequency. For switchable devices, follow the manufacturer's instructions before plugging in.
Often rated 100–240 V; confirm on the charger: phone charger, laptop charger, camera battery charger.
Check the label first: electric toothbrush, electric shaver, CPAP machine, hair straightener / curler.
Usually single voltage: hair dryer, kettle / coffee maker, anything with a heating element.
Plug twins
These countries list the same plug types and a similar voltage range. Check each guide for socket variants and local exceptions.