22 SEP 2026
Author: Jemesa Landers
Before moving, make sure your electricity is set up for the new address, your old address has the right end date, and your broadband is checked early in case installation is needed. If you're responsible for both properties for a few days, keep power connected at both for the overlap. Take meter photos where it's safe, keep confirmation emails handy and check the basics when you arrive.
Moving is busy enough and a few practical steps before moving day can help avoid service gaps, surprise charges and last minute calls.
Once your move date and new address are confirmed arrange electricity for the new property. You'll usually need the new address, the date you become responsible for it and your contact details.
The start date might be the tenancy start date, settlement day or the day you get the keys. It may not be the same day as you physically move your furniture in.
Don't automatically end power at the old address on moving day. Choose the date that matches when you stop being responsible for the property.
If you still need to clean, hand back keys, complete a final inspection or wait for settlement, you may need power at the old address for a little longer. If the dates overlap, make sure both properties are covered for the days you need them.
If your old or new home uses gas for hot water, cooking or heating, check whether you need to arrange a gas connection, disconnection or final reading.
Not every property has gas, and not every gas setup works the same way. If you're not sure, ask the landlord, property manager, seller or previous occupant what services are connected at the property.
Broadband can take longer to arrange that electricity, especially if the property needs a new connection, modem setup or technician visit.
Use an address checker to see what broadband options are available at the new place. Think about how your household uses the internet: working from home, streaming, gaming, study, video calls or multiple people online at once can all affect what plan you choose.
Before moving day, check where the modem, fiber box or connection point is located, and whether any equipment is being sent out, check where it's going and when it should arrive.
If you can safely access the electricity or gas meter, take a clear photo when you leave the old property and when you arrive at the new one. This gives you a useful record if a final or first bill needs checking.
When you get to the new home, check the power is on, hot water is working and the broadband setup is underway. Find the switchboard, meter, modem location and main water shut off if you can.
It's also worth checking whether any appliances, alarms, heat pumps or garage doors need manuals, remotes, access codes or setup details from the landlord, property manager, seller or previous occupant.
You don't need a full packing lecture, but some things are worth keeping out of the moving truck: keys, chargers, medicines, identity documents, toiletries, towels, bedding, a change of clothes, important account details and anything children or pets need on night one.
Suggested next steps: Moving soon? Get in touch with Contact if you need a hand setting up electricity or broadband at your new address before moving day. You can also visit Broadband Map NZ to see what type of broadband connection is available at your new address
For independent complaint or pricing advice, UDL, Billy & Powerswitch can help.
Read our Residential Consumer Care policy on how we'll keep you safe and connected.
