The NZ Electrical Licensing Framework
Electrical work in New Zealand is heavily regulated, and the licensing framework distinguishes between different categories of people authorised to carry out and certify electrical work. Understanding this framework — who can do what, who must certify what, and what happens when unlicensed work is carried out — is important for construction businesses that have electrical work as part of their projects.
Electrical licensing in New Zealand is administered under the Electricity Act 1992 and the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010. The Energy Safety branch of MBIE oversees the licensing system and handles complaints and enforcement.
Registered Electricians
A Registered Electrician (RE) is licensed to carry out prescribed electrical work — the installation, alteration, and repair of electrical wiring and fittings in fixed electrical installations. Registration requires completing the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Electrical Engineering Technology) Level 4 and passing the Registered Electrician registration assessment. Registered Electricians are the workers who carry out electrical installations on construction sites.
Electrical Inspector
An Electrical Inspector (EI) is licensed to certify electrical work — to inspect completed electrical installations and issue the Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) that confirms the installation complies with the Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000) and relevant standards. Most electrical contractors hold both Registered Electrician and Electrical Inspector licences, allowing them to carry out and certify their own work. The CoC is a legal requirement for all new electrical installations and must be issued before the installation can be energised.
What Requires a CoC
Any new prescribed electrical installation or alteration to an existing one requires a CoC. This includes all new residential wiring, commercial installations, additions and alterations to existing installations, and replacement of consumer units. Work that is not prescribed — replacing light fittings or power outlet covers, for example — does not require a CoC or a registered electrician in most cases, but any work that involves the wiring (rather than just the accessory) requires a registered electrician.