My power company is ignoring my complaint about my bill. Where can I complain?
You can go to Utilities Disputes. It is free and independent. Phone 0800 22 33 40 (Monday to Thursday 8am–6pm, Friday 8am–5pm) or complain online at udl.co.nz. Usually, it can formally get involved only if the problem is not resolved after 20 working days, or if the company clearly says it will not deal with it. You can phone for advice before then.
Official figures
- Official comparison website
- Billy (billy.govt.nz): a free comparison website from the Electricity Authority. Upload your power bill or answer a few questions to compare.1
- How long switching takes
- After you choose a company and plan, the new company arranges the switch for you. It takes 3–4 days on average.1
- Fixed-term contracts
- If you switch during a fixed-term contract, you may have to pay a break fee. Check your contract terms first.1
- Contact when you are behind on your bill
- If you are behind on your bill, the electricity company must try to contact you at least 3 times in a week.2
- Contact before deciding to disconnect
- Before deciding to disconnect you, the electricity company must try to contact you at least 5 times (including after you miss a payment).2
Official sources
- Compare and switch to save $$Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko · ea.govt.nz
- If you're finding it hard to pay your billElectricity Authority Te Mana Hiko · ea.govt.nz
- If your power company doesn't meet its obligationsElectricity Authority Te Mana Hiko · ea.govt.nz
- Can we look into your complaint?Utilities Disputes Te Kaiwhakatau Tautohe · udl.co.nz
Read the full guide: Power bills: switching electricity company and saving money →
People also ask
- How do I switch electricity company in NZ? Is there an official comparison website?
- How long does it take to change power company, and do I need to contact my old company?
- Do I have to pay a fee if I switch power company before my contract ends?
- Can my power company cut off my electricity if I can't pay the bill?
- Can the power company disconnect us if someone at home needs medical equipment?
- What is the Winter Energy Payment, how much is it per week and do I need to apply?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
How does this apply to me?
Tell us your situation for practical next steps, with official sources. Try a free question — no sign-in needed.
Share after you sign in with Google and your link will carry your invite code: when a friend signs up through it, you get 20 more questions. You can still share without signing in — it just won’t earn anything.Your link includes your invite code. When a friend signs up through it, you get 20 more questions (up to 10 friends).
Tap “···” at the top right to send to a friend or share to Moments