Converting from electric to gas hot water in NZ costs $2,500–$5,500 in total. The gas unit costs $1,200–$2,500; gas line installation adds $500–$2,000; labour and compliance add $600–$1,200.
Switching from electric to gas involves: removing the existing electric cylinder, installing the gas unit, running new gas pipe from your meter (if not already present), installing a flue/exhaust vent, and compliance sign-off by a licensed gasfitter.
With rising gas prices and strong EECA rebates for heat pump hot water, many homeowners are choosing heat pump electric over gas for new installations. Gas can work if you already have a connection and high demand, but conversion cost and ongoing tariffs mean longer payback periods.
Before committing: Heat pump hot water (lower running cost, EECA rebates eligible), or mains pressure electric upgrade (lower cost than gas conversion). Get quotes for both and compare 5-year running cost projections.