United States of America to New Zealand
The United States of America to New Zealand route is electrically incompatible. Different plug types and 110V voltage difference.
Need an Adapter?
Yes! Yes, you need a Type A/B to Type I adapter
Need a Voltage Converter?
Yes — 230V can damage single-voltage United States of America devices
🔍 Why This Route Matters
Most travelers focus on visas and currency, but the United States of America to New Zealand route requires serious thought about power compatibility. United States of America uses Type A/B plugs, while New Zealand runs on Type I. They're completely incompatible. The bigger issue is voltage: United States of America runs 120V while New Zealand operates at 230V. That's a 110V difference that can fry sensitive electronics. Uses 12H time format (e.g., 11:00 PM). A little preparation goes a long way on this route.
Side-by-Side Comparison ⚡
🎯 What Locals Know (That Tourists Don't)
- ✦Uses 12H time format (e.g., 11:00 PM)
- ✦Temperature measured in Celsius (°C)
- ✦Electrical system uses 230V at 50Hz with Type I plugs
- ✦Tap water safety: drinkable
- ✦Check if your hotel has universal outlets in rooms (increasingly common in newer properties)
- ✦Older electric razors and heated styling tools often aren't dual-voltage. Leave them home or buy locally.
What You Need for This Trip 🧳
Plug Adapter
RequiredUnited States of America's Type A/B plugs won't fit New Zealand's Type I outlets.
Voltage Converter
May Be RequiredNew Zealand uses 230V vs United States of America's 120V. Most modern electronics handle this automatically.
Airport & Arrival Tip
Most international travelers arrive through AKL, which has decent charging infrastructure. Look for dedicated device charging kiosks in the arrivals hall (some require payment, others are free). Airport electronics shops sell adapters, but expect to pay 2-3x normal retail. Better to buy online before departure. Airport express trains and shuttle buses usually don't have outlets. Charge before you board. If your adapter isn't working, hotel front desks can usually lend you one (or direct you to the nearest store).
Packing Advice
Pack both a plug adapter (Type A/B to Type I) AND a voltage converter (120V to 230V). You'll need both. Multi-country adapters eliminate the need to carry multiple single-country versions. A 10,000-20,000 mAh power bank is essential. It's enough to fully charge a phone 2-3 times during long days out. Pack extra charging cables. They're easy to lose and expensive to replace abroad. Electric razors and curling irons are risky with voltage differences. Consider buying locally or leaving them behind. Test all your adapters at home before packing. Discovering a faulty adapter at your hotel is frustrating.
Seasonal Considerations
Power needs vary by season when traveling to New Zealand. Here's what changes throughout the year. **Summer travel:** Summer heat means aggressive air conditioning. Battery life suffers in cold indoor environments. **Winter travel:** Hotels crank up heating, creating dry air that can cause static. Be gentle with device charging. **Holiday season:** Holiday season means packed accommodations. Claiming outlets early is strategic. Seasonal extremes (hot summers, cold winters) impact battery performance more than most travelers expect.