Plug and Go: Your Kiwi Guide to International Travel Adapters
- Ann Due
- Oct 11
- 3 min read
The bags are packed, the passport is checked, and the adventure awaits! As a Kiwi traveller, you're used to the trusty Type I plug (three flat pins in a triangular pattern) and a standard 230V/50Hz power supply. But the moment you step off that plane, the world's outlets are going to throw you a curveball.
The key to a stress-free, fully-charged holiday is a little prep work. Forget scrambling for a pricey, poor-quality adapter at the airport—being prepared means you can focus on the fun stuff!
Here is your essential guide to navigating international power when travelling from New Zealand.
1. Know Your Destination: Country-Specific Power Needs
An adapter simply allows your NZ plug to fit into a foreign wall socket; it does not convert the voltage. The good news is that most modern electronics like laptops, phones, and cameras are dual-voltage (check the fine print for "INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz"). If they are, you only need an adapter.
For those single-voltage appliances (like some hair dryers, curling irons, or older devices), you may also need a voltage converter if you're travelling to a lower-voltage country like the USA. Always check your appliance label first!
Here are the most common plug types you'll encounter as a Kiwi traveller:
Destination | Typical Plug Type(s) | Notes for NZ Travellers |
Australia, Fiji, Argentina | Type I | Same as NZ! No adapter needed for the plug. |
United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong | Type G | The chunky, three-pronged rectangular plug. |
Most of Mainland Europe (e.g., France, Germany, Italy) | Type C, E, F | Type C (two round pins) is common. A Universal or dedicated European adapter is essential. |
United States, Canada, Japan | Type A, B | Two flat parallel pins, sometimes with a third grounding pin. Also, note that these countries typically use a 110-120V supply, so check your device's voltage compatibility! |
China | Type A, C, I | May use a mix, including the NZ/AU Type I, but having a universal adapter is safest. |
Top Tip: For multi-stop trips, invest in a good Universal Adapter. These feature slide-out pins to fit nearly any socket worldwide, often including multiple USB ports.
2. Cruising? Leave the Power Boards at Home
Planning a spectacular sea voyage? Electrical safety on a ship is extremely strict, and policies are designed to prevent fires in confined spaces.
The Golden Rule for Cruise Ships: Do not pack traditional extension cords or surge-protected power strips.
Most major cruise lines prohibit power boards with surge protectors, as they can interfere with the ship's specific electrical systems and have been attributed to fire hazards at sea. If you pack one, security will likely confiscate it at embarkation, returning it only on the last day.
The Approved Alternative: Instead of a power strip, look for a cruise-approved power adapter or multi-plug cube that is explicitly non-surge protected. These often plug directly into a wall socket and offer extra outlets and multiple USB slots without an extension cord.
Cruise ship cabins typically have a mix of sockets, often including a US (Type A/B - 110V) and a European (Type C/F - 220V) socket, plus a few USB ports. Bringing a simple universal adapter or a non-surge protected cube with USB ports will be your best strategy for charging all your devices safely.
3. The Prepared Traveller: Buy Local, Buy Early, Save Money
The airport is the most expensive place on earth to buy a travel adapter. You're paying for convenience at a moment of panic.
Be Prepared:
Buy in Advance: Purchase your adapters from New Zealand before you leave. They are widely available at major electronics stores, department stores (like Kmart or The Warehouse), luggage retailers, and online.
Check the Reviews: A cheap universal adapter that shorts out your phone is no bargain. Spend a little more on a reputable brand known for quality and safety, ideally one with integrated USB-A and USB-C ports.
Pack an Extra: Losing your one and only adapter is a nightmare. Pop a spare, simple adapter into your hand luggage for peace of mind.
A well-chosen travel adapter is one of the smallest things you'll pack, but it's one of the most vital. Get your power sorted now, and spend your trip worrying about which exotic cocktail to order next!
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