How do I use my hair dryer in New Zealand?

New Zealand power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in New Zealand?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in New Zealand:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt New Zealand power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in New Zealand, therefore please check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for New Zealand otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in New Zealand you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in New Zealand read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in New Zealand

Will my hair dryer work in New Zealand?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in New Zealand:

Best travel hair dryers for New Zealand

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

Bundled concentrator and diffuser attachments

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage dryer which operates with a 230 volt New Zealand power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cord. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

Things to consider when buying a new hair dryer

  1. Try looking for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space.
  2. A 'cool shot' option will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature lacks in cheaper models.
  3. In order to operate with a 230 volt New Zealand power outlet the travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  4. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to control both speed and temperature with high and low options, lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst faster hotter speeds will quickly dry wet hair.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky; as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a new dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments.
  7. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the risk of overloading the motor leading to starting a fire; models can be recognised by the 2 test and reset switches on the plug.
  8. Hotel rooms in New Zealand could have a mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a travel blow dryer search for the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible or pack either a power extension cord or hand mirror.
  9. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for New Zealand?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for New Zealand?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a longer 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator attachments with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a cheap power adapter for New Zealand to fit into a New Zealand power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is the best small ionic travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

What is the best small ionic travel hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that includes options found on larger blow dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a New Zealand power outlet they will work in New Zealand and fold conveniently enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [6] [7] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer for New Zealand?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer for New Zealand?

  • Using a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in faster drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to New Zealand in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a New Zealand power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for New Zealand?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in New Zealand Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

New Zealand power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used with a New Zealand power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a New Zealand power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

What mains voltage is used in New Zealand?

Power outlets in New Zealand are 230 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in New Zealand?

The type of power outlet used in New Zealand is type I. You can recognise this plug outlet by the 3 thin slots for the live, neutral and earth. A Type I plug adapter is suitable for powering a 230 volt hair dryer in New Zealand; read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in New Zealand with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in New Zealand?

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

The method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in New Zealand then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a New Zealand power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a New Zealand power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in New Zealand.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in New Zealand or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How do I use a dual voltage blow dryer in New Zealand?

  1. First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it operates with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to work in the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for New Zealand, also plug in the power adapter into the New Zealand power outlet.
  4. It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - however this temperature and speed should be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to operate with a New Zealand power outlet.

How do I switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 voltages although some brands can automatically detect the voltage used in New Zealand.
  2. This switch or dial normally requires a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models of travel dryer.

Travelling to New Zealand with a hair dryer

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to New Zealand?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing blow dryer to New Zealand (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a New Zealand power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for New Zealand). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by a baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in New Zealand could be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [14] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in New Zealand?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in New Zealand?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

When staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in New Zealand or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove any burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in New Zealand or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is taking you to New Zealand will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for New Zealand

Can I use my hair dryer with a voltage converter for New Zealand?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in New Zealand. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a travel hair dryer can be considerably smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [5] [AD]

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for New Zealand?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for New Zealand?

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in New Zealand, but an expensive and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a New Zealand power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in New Zealand using a type I power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in New Zealand using a three pronged Type I power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Dual voltage hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts; please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in New Zealand you'll need to bring a Type I plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter is designed to fit different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in New Zealand by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to plug the Type I plug adapter in the power outlet. The wall outlet, sometimes known as the Type I power outlet [3], can be identified by the 3 slots forming an upside-down triangular configuration with the top two slots sloping upwards for the live, neutral and ground blades.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the New Zealand power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer in New Zealand. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in New Zealand using a type I power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - New Zealand Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type I power outlet
  4. Type I plug adapter - A Type I electrical adapter, compliant with AS/NZS 3112, fits in a standard Australia electrical outlet. This adapter features two flat pins in an inverted V-shape with an earthing pin and is also commonly used in New Zealand, China, and Argentina..
  5. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  6. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  7. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  8. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  9. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  10. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  11. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  15. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.