Household electricity costs in winter 2025

The story so far

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority suggested seven ways to reduce electricity bills, aimed at the middle months of the year, which are often the most expensive for power use.^{3 Jun 2025} By early July, some pensioners were rationing power to cope with rising costs, with Age Concern saying some were turning off hot water cylinders for days and eating cold food.^{2 Jul 2025} Stats New Zealand figures showed electricity costs had risen nearly 9 per cent since June last year.^{2, 4 Jul 2025} A Consumer New Zealand survey found 20 per cent of Kiwis were struggling to pay their power bills, and some were cutting back on heating to manage costs.^{4 Jul 2025}

Latest

The most recent report, from 4 July, says 20 per cent of Kiwis are struggling with power bills this winter, with electricity prices up almost 9 per cent over the past year.^{4 Jul 2025}

Key moments

1. 3 Jun 2025EECA suggests seven methods to help households reduce electricity bills
2. 2 Jul 2025Some pensioners ration power, turning off hot water cylinders for days
3. 2 Jul 2025Stats NZ figures show electricity costs up nearly 9 per cent
4. 4 Jul 2025Consumer NZ survey: 20 per cent of Kiwis struggling to pay power bills
5. 4 Jul 2025Some people reportedly cutting back on heating to manage winter costs

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.