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Guides & Expert Advice

Practical tips and answers to the questions we get asked most — from choosing the right heat pump to understanding your electrical options.

Electrical3 min read

How Much Does an EV Charger Installation Cost in Northland?

A clear breakdown of EV charger installation costs in Whangarei and Kerikeri — what affects the price, what's included, and what to watch out for.

18 Apr 2026Read
Electrical3 min read

When Does Your Switchboard Need Upgrading?

Old ceramic fuses, frequent tripping, no RCDs — here's how to tell if your Northland home is overdue for a switchboard upgrade.

5 Apr 2026Read
Electrical3 min read

LED Downlights vs Traditional Lighting: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

How much you'll save by switching from halogen to LED downlights — payback periods, light quality, and what to watch for in your Northland home.

22 Mar 2026Read
Heat Pumps4 min read

What Type of Ventilation System Do I Need?

Positive pressure or balanced? Understanding the two main types of home ventilation systems and which one is right for your Northland home.

9 Mar 2026Read
Electrical3 min read

Smoke Alarm Rules for Northland Rentals: What Landlords Need to Know

A plain-English guide to NZ smoke alarm requirements for rental properties in Whangarei, Kerikeri and the rest of Northland.

8 Mar 2026Read
Electrical3 min read

Choosing Security Lighting for Your Whangarei Home

What to install, where to install it, and what to watch out for — a practical guide to security and sensor lighting for Northland homes.

20 Feb 2026Read
Electrical4 min read

Planning the Electrical for Your New Build: A Northland Checklist

The electrical decisions you should make before consent — switchboards, EV provisions, data cabling, smart home, and how to avoid expensive retrofits.

5 Feb 2026Read
Heat Pumps5 min read

Questions to Ask Your Heat Pump Installer Before Getting a Quote

Choosing the right heat pump for your home is a big decision—both in comfort and cost. While most people focus on price and brand, there are several other key...

6 Nov 2025Read
Heat Pumps4 min read

How to Get the Most Out of Your Heat Pump in Summer – Northland’s Guide to Efficient Cooling

When the Northland summer heat sets in, a well-installed heat pump can be your best friend. Modern heat pumps are designed to keep your home cool, dry, and...

5 Nov 2025Read
Heat Pumps3 min read

How Much Does a Heat Pump Installation Cost in Whangarei?

Heat pump installation in Whangarei starts from $1,899+GST fully installed. Here's what affects the price, what's included, and how to get the best value.

15 Apr 2025Read
Heat Pumps4 min read

Mitsubishi vs Fujitsu vs Gree Heat Pumps: Which Is Right for Your Northland Home?

Choosing between Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu, and Gree heat pumps? Our honest comparison covers performance, price, warranty, and which brand suits which type of home.

15 Apr 2025Read
Electrical3 min read

What Electrical Work Can a Homeowner Do Themselves?

In New Zealand, homeowners are allowed to perform some basic electrical work on their own homes, provided they follow specific safety guidelines and...

10 Mar 2025Read
Building & Renovation2 min read

5 Things You Must Get Right for Your Renovation to Succeed

Managing a renovation project yourself can be a rewarding but challenging task. Here are five key things a homeowner must do to ensure the project runs...

12 Nov 2024Read
Building & Renovation4 min read

Building Your Dream Home: Why Your Local Builder Makes the Difference

Building Your Dream Home: Why Your Local Builder Makes the...

12 Nov 2024Read
Electrical2 min read

Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) Compliance in Whangarei

Does your Whangarei commercial building need a Building Warrant of Fitness? Here's what the BWOF process involves, who needs one, and how Gibson Electric can help with the electrical components.

12 Nov 2024Read
Heat Pumps3 min read

How to Know if Your Heat Pump Needs Replacing

Determining if your heat pump is getting old and needs replacing involves assessing various factors related to its performance, age, and overall condition....

12 Nov 2024Read
Building & Renovation4 min read

Looking to Build a New House? Read This First

The Smart Choice: Why Local Builders Trump Large Housing...

12 Nov 2024Read
Building & Renovation4 min read

Managing Your Home Build: A Complete Project Management Guide

**Remember to get quotes from multiple builders. Always go for a local non-franchise option. They are better prepared, are not building in margin for franchise...

12 Nov 2024Read
Building & Renovation4 min read

House Renovation Tips & Things to Think About

When renovating a house, several aspects are critical to ensure the project is successful and adds value to the home. Here are some of the most important...

15 Oct 2024Read
Heat Pumps2 min read

What to Look for When Purchasing a Heat Pump

- Energy Efficiency: Look for models with high energy star ratings to ensure lower operating costs. - Performance in all Temperatures: If you live in an area...

18 Sept 2024Read
Electrical5 min read

Why Install LED Lights in Your Home?

Why Every Homeowner Should Upgrade to LED...

25 Aug 2024Read
Electrical3 min read

Electrical Safety for Homes

Electrical safety in the home is a paramount concern for residents in New Zealand. Ensuring that your electrical systems are safe not only protects your...

11 Jan 2024Read
Building & Renovation2 min read

Kerikeri History

If you are a local or looking to move our history is an important part of our...

19 Sept 2023Read
Heat Pumps3 min read

Why High Wall Heat Pumps?

Did you know? For every 1kw of energy you put into a heat pump you get 3-4 out (with the most efficient Mitsubishi Electric & Gree units). This means lower...

19 Sept 2023Read

Have a question we haven't covered?

Get in touch — our team is happy to help with any heat pump or electrical questions.