We own and manage the electricity distribution network responsible for getting power to your property when you need it.
Changes from 1 April 2026
From 1 April 2026, the Electricity Authority (the independent regulator for the electricity industry) is introducing new rules with the intention to:
- improve consistency and transparency in how lines companies approach pricing throughout New Zealand
- reduce situations where the ‘first’ or ‘last’ customer pays much more than others
- make sure new connections pay their fair share of costs
- improve transparency so customers can better understand what they are being charged for.
These changes apply to all lines companies and is the start of a broader journey to increase connection pricing transparency.
You can find out more about these changes on the Electricity Networks Aotearoa website.
When you request a new connection to the Aurora Energy network, we’ll explain how these changes apply to you.
Applying for a new connection
You need to apply to connect to the Aurora Energy network if you want:
- A new permanent connection to the network
- A temporary connection to the network
- To alter your current connection including installing any notifiable loads, for example, charging facilities for plug-in electric vehicles, generators, heat pumps
- To replace all or part of the mains on your property
Who's involved?
We've outlined who might be involved and what their role is to help get you connected.
You require a new connection to the Aurora Energy electricity network.
They'll install the wiring for your new connection and provide the mains cable to one of our approved network contractors.
They are authorised by us to work on our network; this includes connecting your mains cable to our network.
They are certified by us to inspect our network and install the meter for your new home.
They will arrange the installation or alteration of your meter and send you your power bills.
You'll need to get the lawyers involved if you require an easement for any cabling that may cross your neighbours' properties to get power from our network to your property boundary.
If an easement is required, you'll need to engage surveyors to provide us with the plans showing where the cables will go, and the final location once they've been installed (sometimes they change from the original plans).
That’s us! We own and manage the network that distributes power in your area. Our role is to assess your application and approve connecting your mains to our network.
How long does it take to get connected?
The time it takes to get connected varies depending on how complex the job is. Generally, new connections fall into two categories:
Simple
If there is already an existing supply of power to your property boundary (Point of Supply) and no easements or modifications are required, your new connection is straightforward.
If your electrician refers to your connection as a 'simple connection' the process that must be followed to get your new home connected involves:
- You
- Your electrician
- Approved Network Contractor
- Authorised Network Inspector
- Your electricity retailer
- Us
Standard
If your build is part of a new subdivision (or the Point of Supply is not available at the property boundary), there might be more requirements. Your connection may need cables that cross over your neighbours' boundaries which might mean an easement is required.
That's ok, it just means the process is slightly different and may take a little longer as more people need to provide information to complete the job.
If your electrician refers to a 'standard connection' the process that must be followed to get your new home connected involves:
- You
- Your lawyers
- Surveyors
- Your electrician
- Approved Network Contractor
- Authorised Network Inspector
- Your electricity retailer
- Us