Nova Energy is a New Zealand energy company that supplies electricity, natural gas, broadband and mobile. It is part of the Todd group, which owns solar and fast-start gas peaking generation, according to Nova’s website.
Type: Retailer, part of the Todd group (which owns generation)
Gas supply: Yes (limited areas)
Plans: Variable and fixed-term options
Notable: Describes itself as Kiwi-owned; also sells broadband and mobile
Nova Energy Plans (2026)
Standard Variable Plan
- Unit rate: approximately 30–36c/kWh (major urban areas, incl. GST)
- Daily charge: approximately 50–70c/day
- No lock-in contract; rates can change with advance notice
Fixed-Term Plans
- Rate locked for a fixed period (typically 12 months)
- Break fee applies if you leave early
Gas Supply
Nova Energy supplies piped natural gas in some North Island urban areas (Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, parts of Northland). If you have gas appliances, Nova can bundle gas and electricity.
Nova’s Strengths
1. Consistently competitive pricing Nova regularly appears in the competitive tier on Powerswitch comparisons, particularly for North Island addresses. Nova prices to compete with the large gentailers.
2. Long track record Nova is part of the Todd group, which Nova describes as having helped drive New Zealand’s progress for generations.
3. NZ-owned private company Nova is privately owned in NZ, not listed on a stock exchange. Some customers prefer supporting a NZ-owned independent over the listed gentailers.
4. Gas supply option For homes with piped natural gas in the North Island, Nova’s gas supply option means one provider for both utilities.
5. No-frills approach works well for most households Nova doesn’t have flashy features like Hour of Power, but their straightforward competitive pricing is effective. If you want a simple, competitive plan, Nova delivers.
Nova’s Weaknesses
1. Less competitive in South Island Nova’s pricing tends to be more competitive in the North Island. In Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, gentailers or other independents often offer better rates.
2. No hour of power or spot pricing innovation Nova doesn’t offer innovative features like Electric Kiwi’s Hour of Power. It’s a traditional flat-rate model.
3. Smaller company means limited resources Nova’s customer service operation is smaller than the major gentailers. Most interactions are online, with limited phone support hours.
Who Is Nova Energy Best For?
- North Island households wanting a competitive retailer
- Homes with piped natural gas in Nova-serviced areas
- Households who want straightforward flat-rate pricing without needing to engage with spot markets or special features
Verdict
Nova Energy is an electricity retailer that offers competitive pricing in North Island regions. Not the most innovative product, but a solid choice for households wanting straightforward value.
Rating: 3.5/5 — Good value for North Island households, especially those with gas connections.