We’re working towards creating one of the biggest EV charging networks in New Zealand. We'll be delivering a mix of AC chargers located where people are likely to spend time and DC chargers for those who need a quick charging fix.
While not as fast as a Direct Current (DC) charger, our Alternating Current (AC) chargers are much faster (and safer) than plugging into a socket at home and the ideal top up if you're going to be parking up for a while - eg while you're at the movies or hitting the shops.
Direct Current (DC) chargers send power directly into your car battery, so they’re perfect if you’re in a hurry.
First, you’ll need to download and register on our Zero app. Then simply connect your EV with the charging cable (your own or the one provided). Scan the QR code on the charger with the Zero app and start charging. You’ll find easy to follow instructions on all our Zero charging stations.
*The pre-authorisation is the total amount held on your card at the start of each charge. At the end of the charge when the total charge amount is known, the difference is then refunded back to your bank. This amount can take a few days to release back on your card depending on your banks processing times.
Sometimes we need to troubleshoot EV chargers, much like restarting a laptop that’s not working.
Here are some quick solutions to sort the problem and get you back on the road again, fast.
Problem starting the charger?
Can’t unlock the EV charger?
AC: Lock and unlock your EV and immediately unplug the cable to release it from the charging station. If your EV has a cable lock button, check that it’s released.
DC: Make sure you have internet coverage – data or wifi – as the app needs to communicate with the charger. In low coverage areas it can take longer. If you get stuck, press the emergency stop button, BUT you must pull the button back out, so the charger is available for the next person to use.
Still having issues? Contact 0800 EV Zero.
Our Zero EV chargers are available for anyone with an EV to use. So regardless of whether or not you’re a Meridian customer, you can download the app and start charging whenever you’re ready.
To use a charger, you need to download the Zero app. Once you’re all set up, you’ll easily be able to use a charger. To get charging, simply follow the step-by-step instructions on the side of the charger itself.
You can use any of our chargers for your car. If you have your own Type 2 cable, you can plug in to the AC chargers. The DC chargers come with charging cables so it’s easy to drive straight up and start charging. Don’t forget though, AC chargers take longer to use than DC ones, so make sure you have some time to spare if that’s the type you chose.
You may have been provided a charging cable when you purchased your electric vehicle. Otherwise, while Meridian doesn’t currently supply charging cables, there are a number of retailers that do.
This depends on the make and model of the EV. Depending on the size of the battery, the distance you can travel on a full charge will vary from 120-500 kilometres. If you’re already an EV driver, you’ll be familiar with how far your car can get you.
You sure can! Just make sure you have a charging cable in the boot if you want to use the AC chargers.
You'll need to use the Zero app or Zero online portal to start and pay for a charging session. Please note that we don't currently support any other apps and will never redirect you outside of Zero to enter your credit card details.
Payment is made through the Zero app or the online portal on the Zero website using a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Once you’ve logged in, you can assign a debit or credit card to your account. This will be charged each time you use a Zero charger. Don’t worry though, this information is secure and makes it super easy for you to charge and go.
A pre-authorisation of $20 for AC chargers and $30 for DC chargers will be charged to your assigned card each time you charge. The pre-authorisation is the total amount held on your card at the start of each charge. At the end of the charge when the total charge amount is known, the difference is then refunded back to your bank. This amount can take a few days to release back on your card depending on your banks processing times.
No, you can also pay through the online portal of the Zero website. All you need to do is upload your debit or credit card details to your account. The easiest way is to go through the app – it’s super easy and secure.
Payment for charging is completed through our app. Once you’ve logged in, you’ll be able to assign a debit or credit card to your account which will be charged each time you charge. Don’t worry though, this information is secure and makes it super easy for you to charge and go.
Meridian Energy owns Zero and as a business, manages the payments made at a Zero charger.
This is to encourage drivers to disconnect as soon as they are finished charging so that the charger is free to be used by other drivers.
At the moment, we will not be notifying customers when a new charger is added to the network.
This is a feature that we are looking to add in future but in the meantime, we'll regularly be updating location information in the Zero app and website.
For both AC and DC chargers, the amount of time that it takes to charge your car will depend on the make and model. In the Zero app, you can enter this information and we’ll give you an indication of the speed it’ll take to charge your EV. There are also lots of resources online that can give you an estimate of how long it will take to charge your particular vehicle.
A range of factors can influence the speed your EV charges at. This includes temperature, battery state of charge (i.e. how charged the battery is), and the vehicle’s capacity to convert AC to DC.
The number of cars charging at the same time can also slow down charging.
1. Follow our troubleshooting guide above.
2. Please contact us – you can either let us know via the Zero app or give us a ring at 0800 EV ZERO.
