EV Public Charging: Networks, Prices, and Providers
The charging network in New Zealand is not a single utility; it comprises multiple providers and payment systems.
A charger can be AC (slower, cheaper; most require your own cable) or DC (faster, more expensive, cable not needed). You can predict the time and cost to charge at an AC charge point.
Public Charging Prices
| Charging Network | AC per kWh | DC per kWh | Per Minute charge | Idle Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ChargeNet | $0.40 | $0.80 – $0.85 | – | $1 / minute* |
| OpenLoop (includes WEL networks) | $0.24 – $0.50 | $0.24 + | – | |
| Z Energy | $0.69 | – | – | |
| Hikotron | $0.50 | – | – | – |
| BP | $0.70 | – | – | |
| Zero (Meridian) | $0.50 | |||
| Jolt | Free** | $0.50 | ||
| Tesla Supercharger (Tesla only) | Variable (0.40 – 0.75c) | $1 / minute |
** For first 7 kW.
EV charging stations in New Zealand
Public charging networks in New Zealand
- ChargeNet
The largest journey charging network with > 280 chargers. - OpenLoop
Includes chargers by WEL networks - Z Energy
Integrated into existing Z service stations. - BP
Integrated into existing BP service stations (aiming to have chargers across 50 stations by the end of 2023). - Hikotron
Hamilton-based, focusing on AC charging, now partnering with Mercury Energy to roll out 500 charging points throughout the country. - Zero (Meridian)
Mostly destination chargers at community areas (sports clubs). Predominantly AC chargers (some are free). - Thundergrid
Wellington-based charger installation – with some public chargers. - Jolt
Establishing a network of destination chargers at Mitre 10. - Tesla Supercharger
Around 14 Tesla superchargers in NZ. - Kiwev
Destination chargers installed at motels and restaurants (prices set by property owner? Typically 30-50c per kWh).
Partnerships with power providers
Many NZ energy companies collaborate with charging networks, bringing discounts and unified payment options.
| Power Company | Charging Network | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis | Chargenet | Combined billing using Genesis power plan’s ‘per kWh’ day and night rates. |
| EV Plan includes a $200 credit or free AC charging cable (for use at Zero chargers). | OpenLoop | Add charging sessions to Octopus bill |
| Octopus Energy | ChargeNet | Add charging sessions to Octopus bill |
| Meridian | Zero | EV Plan includes either a $200 credit or free AC charging cable (for use at Zero chargers). |
| Electric Kiwi | – | Discount on EVNEX home smart charger installation. |
| Electric Kiwi | Chargenet | Add charging sessions to Electric Kiwi bill |
| AA Smartfuel | Chargenet | Earn credits for Chargenet based on fuel credits earned |
| Cardlink | Chargenet + existing petrol stations | Allows business fleet vehicles to have everything on a single invoice. |
Charging network maps
How do you find the nearest charger?
Waka Kotahi (EVRoam)
Maintains maps of fast chargers.
Plugshare
Extensive coverage of all kinds of chargers.
ABRP
Plan a road trip that includes the best charging stops.
EECA Charging Map
Seems out of date.
What’s the difference between a charger, station, or charging port?
The definitions from the US NEVI program are helpful.
Charger
A device with one or more charging ports and connectors for charging EVs.
Charging Port
The system within a charger that charges one EV. A charging port can have several connectors, but it can charge only one EV at a time.
Charging Station
The area in the immediate vicinity of a group of chargers and includes chargers, support equipment, adjacent parking, and lanes for entering and leaving.
A charging station could comprise only part of the property on which it is located.
