Water Pumps NZ: Top 8 Picks, Prices & Where To Buy

Low water pressure, a noisy old pump, or a tank setup that keeps tripping out—sound familiar? Picking the right water pump in NZ isn’t simple. Homes with two storeys need more head than a single-level bach; rainwater tanks call for smart changeover to mains; rural bores demand slim, efficient submersibles; and gardens or greywater jobs need robust, reliable units that won’t mind dirty work. Add brand jargon, flow rates (L/min), head height (m), noise, energy use, and warranty support, and it’s easy to second-guess the buy.

This guide cuts through the noise. We’ve shortlisted eight proven pumps you can actually get in New Zealand—covering quiet variable‑speed house pressure systems, compact options for small homes, budget-friendly picks, rain‑to‑mains kits, deep‑well bore pumps, garden jet pumps, drainage submersibles, plus marine and RV options from a trusted local retailer. For each pick you’ll see what it is, why we rate it, who it suits, the key specs to check, a typical NZ price range, and where to buy nationwide. Ready to match a pump to your place, boat, or motorhome—and get reliable pressure without the guesswork? Let’s start.

1. Action Outdoors: Marine and RV water pump picks (best for boats and motorhomes)

If your galley tap coughs at anchor or your motorhome shower drops to a drizzle, you need a pump that’s quiet, sip‑frugal on amps, and built for salt, vibration and tight lockers. Action Outdoors is a NZ retailer with a deep marine and RV focus, making it a handy first stop to match 12V/24V water pumps, hoses and fittings that actually play nicely together on Kiwi boats and campers.

What it is

A curated selection for mobile water systems: freshwater pressure pumps for taps and showers, compact transfer pumps for tanks, bilge and utility pumps for wet spaces, plus the plumbing bits (filters, hose, fittings) to finish the job.

Why we like it

• NZ-focused range: Stock tailored to boats, baches-on-wheels and off‑grid setups.
• Practical advice: In‑store know‑how to help size head/flow and pick the right voltage.
• One‑trip fit‑out: Pumps, hose, strainers and accessories in one place.

Best for

• Trailer boats and launches needing reliable galley/shower pressure.
• Motorhomes/campervans upgrading to quieter multi‑chamber 12V pumps.
• Tiny homes/off‑grid cabins using tank supply with 12V systems.

Key specs to check

• Voltage & draw: 12V vs 24V; amps at typical pressure.
• Flow & pressure: L/min and bar; match to fixtures and head height.
• Self‑priming & dry‑run protection: For tank changes and air in lines.
• Noise & vibration: Multi‑chamber design, mounts, rubber feet.
• Materials & ratings: Potable‑water safe components; IP protection.
• Ports & footprint: Inlet/outlet size, orientation, available space.
• Control: Built‑in pressure switch or external controller/accumulator.

Typical NZ price

Varies by type and output; compact 12V pressure and transfer pumps typically cost less than high‑capacity multi‑chamber, macerator or specialist utility pumps. Check current NZ pricing in‑store or online.

Where to buy in NZ

Action Outdoors: shop online NZ‑wide or visit their Auckland store for hands‑on advice and pickup.

2. Grundfos SCALA2: Quiet, variable-speed house pressure pump

When you want hotel‑style showers without the pump roar, the SCALA2 is the benchmark many Kiwis compare other water pumps in NZ against. It’s designed to keep pressure steady as taps open and close, so mornings don’t turn into surprise trickles when someone starts the dishwasher.

What it is

A compact, all‑in‑one household pressure system that uses variable‑speed control to deliver consistent water pressure from mains or tank supply. It’s built for everyday domestic use and tidy installs in laundries, pump cupboards or garages.

Why we like it

SCALA2 is known for quiet running and smooth pressure, which makes it an easy upgrade from a chattery fixed‑speed unit. It’s also efficient, adjusting output to demand so you’re not burning power for a single hand‑wash.

• Constant pressure: Variable speed adapts instantly to demand.
• Quiet operation: Dampened noise for indoor-friendly installs.
• Compact form: Easy to place and plumb in tight spaces.
• Built‑in safeguards: Protection features for reliable uptime.
• NZ availability: Widely stocked with local support.

Best for

Homes that want “set‑and‑forget” pressure with minimal noise, especially where multiple outlets run at once or where morning peak demand drops cheaper pumps off a cliff.

• Single to two‑storey homes wanting steady showers.
• Tank or mains-fed houses needing a smart booster.
• Renovations where space and noise matter.

Key specs to check

Pick the right model by matching the pump to your plumbing and pressure needs rather than chasing the biggest number on a box.

• Required head height (m): Match to single vs double storey.
• Flow demand (L/min): Sum fixtures for peak usage.
• Noise level: For indoor placement near bedrooms.
• Electrical supply: Voltage and amperage compatibility.
• Inlet/outlet size: Fit with existing pipework.
• Protection features: Dry‑run, over‑temp, anti‑cycle.
• Controller behaviour: Pressure set‑point and restart logic.

Typical NZ price

Positioned in the mid‑to‑premium bracket versus budget fixed‑speed pumps. Check current NZ pricing with local pump specialists or hardware stores to confirm availability and any bundle deals.

Where to buy in NZ

Widely available through specialist pump retailers and major stores nationwide.

• Pump Depot (stocks GRUNDFOS)
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mitre 10
• Mico
• STIHL SHOP
• Watertech Plus
• Devan Tanks dealers

3. DAB Esybox Mini3: Compact house pump for small to medium homes

Short on cupboard space and over pump noise? The DAB Esybox Mini3 is a compact, tidy domestic booster that’s become a favourite among compact house water pumps NZ homeowners choose. It focuses on quiet, steady pressure for everyday living, without a sprawling install or fiddly add‑ons.

What it is

A small‑footprint household pressure system for boosting mains or rainwater supply. It’s designed to deliver consistent, usable pressure for kitchens, showers and laundries in single to medium‑size homes, with an all‑in‑one package that’s straightforward to install.

Why we like it

Esybox Mini3 is built for neat, quiet installs where space and sound matter, while keeping commissioning simple for plumbers and DIY‑savvy owners.

• Compact form: Fits cupboards and pump niches cleanly.
• Low noise: Family‑friendly for indoor placement.
• Modern controls: Smart operation to reduce nuisance trips.
• Easy setup: Clear commissioning and service access.

Best for

If you want reliable, set‑and‑forget pressure without the bulk of a traditional system, start here.

• Small to medium homes on town or tank supply.
• Renovations and minor dwellings where noise is critical.
• Baches/granny flats with limited space and light demand.

Key specs to check

Match the pump to your peak use and pipework so pressure stays steady when multiple fixtures run.

• Head height (m): Single vs two‑storey requirements.
• Flow demand (L/min): Simultaneous taps/showers.
• Noise rating & mounts: Indoor comfort and vibration control.
• Inlet/outlet size: Compatibility with existing plumbing.
• Electrical supply & draw: Circuit capacity and start‑up load.
• Protection features: Dry‑run, thermal and anti‑cycle behaviour.
• Install location: Ventilation, splash and frost considerations.

Typical NZ price

Generally priced in the premium compact category—more than entry‑level fixed‑speed pumps, typically less than large multi‑pump systems. Confirm current NZ pricing with specialist retailers.

Where to buy in NZ

Available through NZ pump specialists and plumbing merchants.

• Pump Depot (supplies DAB)
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mico
• Watertech Plus
• STIHL SHOP
• Devan Tanks dealer network

4. Davey RainBank + HP45-05: Rain-to-mains tank pump system

If you’re harvesting rainwater but still want mains reliability, a rain‑to‑mains kit makes life easy. The Davey RainBank paired with the HP45‑05 pressure pump automatically draws from your tank and seamlessly switches to mains when the tank runs low—no manual valves, no surprises mid‑shower.

What it is

A domestic pressure pump (HP45‑05) combined with an automatic RainBank changeover controller. It prioritises rainwater for fixtures like toilets, laundry and outdoor taps, and switches to mains when the tank is empty, maintaining household pressure without cross‑connection.

Why we like it

Set‑and‑forget convenience with tidy plumbing and dependable pressure for everyday use.

• Automatic changeover: Uses tank water first, then mains as backup.
• Single-box simplicity: Pump and controller work as a matched system.
• Installer-friendly: Clean layout that suits new builds and retrofits.

Best for

Homes wanting easy rainwater use without sacrificing reliability.

• Urban homes with tanks plumbed to toilets/laundry.
• Baches and rentals needing hands‑off operation.
• Retrofits where existing pumps keep air‑locking or short‑cycling.

Key specs to check

Confirm the kit matches your pipework, pressure needs and council requirements.

• Flow and head: L/min at required head for your storey height.
• Pressure set‑point: Usable pressure at fixtures under load.
• Electrical draw: Circuit capacity and start current.
• Changeover behaviour: Pressure loss across the valve and response time.
• Dry‑run/thermal protection: Safeguards for low‑water events.
• Connections & footprint: Inlet/outlet sizes, mounting space, IP rating.

Typical NZ price

Positioned above pump‑only setups; final cost varies by kit version, installation complexity, valves and filtration. Get a current NZ price from a specialist before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly available from specialist pump retailers and plumbing merchants nationwide; confirm stock and lead times locally.

• Mico
• Mitre 10
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Watertech Plus
• STIHL SHOP

5. HYJET HHR-60: Budget house pump for small homes and baches

Want steady pressure without paying premium-pump money? The HYJET HHR‑60 sits in the value end of water pumps NZ buyers look at for single‑bathroom homes and baches. It’s a simple fixed‑speed pressure system that gets the basics right for everyday taps, showers and laundry, provided you match it to a modest demand profile.

What it is

A compact, fixed‑speed domestic booster suited to mains or tank supply. It’s designed to start on pressure drop and stop on pressure recovery, keeping plumbing and commissioning straightforward for small dwellings.

Why we like it

• Great value: Solid performance for the price bracket.
• Simple to live with: Fixed‑speed, pressure‑switch operation is easy to install and service.
• NZ availability: Ready access through local pump specialists.

Best for

• Small homes, baches and granny flats with one bathroom.
• Budget-conscious upgrades from tired or noisy older units.
• Tank or mains boosting where quietness and ultra‑steady pressure are less critical than cost.

Key specs to check

• Required head (m): Single‑storey vs split‑level needs.
• Flow demand (L/min): Typical peak use across 1–2 outlets.
• Pressure switch setting: Cut‑in/out behaviour for your fixtures.
• Dry‑run/thermal protection: Safeguards on low water or hot days.
• Noise and mounts: Vibration control for indoor installs.
• Port sizes and footprint: Compatibility with existing pipework and space.

Typical NZ price

Firmly in the budget category compared with variable‑speed systems. Allow for fittings, valves and installation; confirm current NZ pricing with retailers.

Where to buy in NZ

Stocked by pump specialists and hardware retailers nationwide; check for HHR‑60 availability or the closest HYJET equivalent.

• Pump Depot (stocks HYJET)
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mitre 10
• Mico
• STIHL SHOP
• Watertech Plus

6. Grundfos SQE 2-55: 3-inch submersible bore pump for deep wells

When your property relies on groundwater, the pump choice determines whether you get steady household pressure or a spluttering tap each time the tank drops. The Grundfos SQE 2‑55 sits in that dependable class of water pumps NZ rural owners look for when bores are deep and casings are tight, delivering water from below ground to tanks or direct to a pressure system.

What it is

A submersible multistage bore pump designed to sit down the well and lift water up to your tank, pressure system or irrigation line. Its slim format suits narrow bores, and the submerged install removes pump noise from the house.

Why we like it

It’s a proven, tidy way to move water from deep sources into everyday use, with broad NZ support through established pump retailers and merchants.

• Slim submersible format: Ideal where the bore casing leaves limited clearance.
• House-friendly: Noise stays down the bore, not in your laundry.
• Clean plumbing: Pairs well with above‑ground pressure sets and filtration.
• NZ availability: Easy to source parts and advice locally.

Best for

• Lifestyle blocks and rural homes drawing domestic supply from a bore.
• Deep or narrow wells where surface pumps aren’t practical.
• Header tank top‑ups and light irrigation fed from groundwater.

Key specs to check

Match the pump to your bore and demand before you buy; a quick pre‑design check saves headaches later.

• Total dynamic head: Static water level + drawdown + elevation + friction.
• Required flow (L/min): Peak household or irrigation demand at that head.
• Bore details: Casing diameter, straightness, screen depth and water level data.
• Water quality: Sand/solids tolerance; plan filtration and protection.
• Power & controls: Supply voltage, cable run length, start protection and control gear.
• Non‑return & protection: Check valve position, dry‑run/overload safeguards.
• Install hardware: Drop pipe, safety rope, well head seal and weatherproof terminations.

Typical NZ price

Premium tier versus budget submersibles; allow for control gear, cable, drop pipe, well head components and installation. Get a NZ‑specific quote based on your measured head and flow.

Where to buy in NZ

Available nationwide through pump specialists and major merchants:

• Pump Depot (stocks GRUNDFOS)
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mitre 10
• Mico
• STIHL SHOP
• Watertech Plus
• Devan Tanks dealer network

7. Davey Jet 82: Reliable garden and irrigation jet pump

If you’re pulling from a rain tank or shallow source and want dependable hose pressure for sprinklers, vege beds and washing down gear, a self‑priming jet pump is hard to beat. The Davey Jet 82 is a go‑to for Kiwi backyards and lifestyle blocks wanting simple, robust outdoor supply without the complexity of a full house booster.

What it is

A surface‑mounted, self‑priming jet pump designed to lift from tanks or shallow draws and deliver steady pressure to hoses, sprinklers and small irrigation zones. It’s built for outdoor duty and straightforward plumbing with standard fittings.

Why we like it

• Self‑priming confidence: Handles suction lift better than basic centrifugals.
• Sprinkler‑friendly pressure: Solid, even flow for typical garden hardware.
• Tough and serviceable: Outdoor‑ready with parts support in NZ.
• Versatile: Works as a transfer, booster or garden/yard pump.

Best for

• Lawns and gardens running 1–2 sprinkler lines.
• Rain tank draw to outdoor taps and irrigation.
• Lifestyle blocks for trough top‑ups and washdown.

Key specs to check

• Suction lift & priming: Height from water level; foot valve/strainer.
• Flow at pressure (L/min): Match to sprinklers/hoses you’ll run.
• Duty cycle & thermal protection: For long watering sessions.
• Inlet/outlet size: Pipe friction matters on suction runs.
• Power & start‑up current: Circuit capacity and cable length.
• Weather protection: Pump cover or shed; IP rating and drainage.

Typical NZ price

Mid‑range for garden jet pumps. Allow for valves, strainer, non‑return, fittings and a weather cover. Check current NZ pricing with local retailers.

Where to buy in NZ

Widely stocked by pump specialists and major merchants:

• Pump Depot
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mitre 10
• Mico
• STIHL SHOP
• Watertech Plus
• Devan Tanks dealer network

8. DAB NOVA 300 M-A: Submersible drainage pump for greywater and flooding

Stormwater in the garage, a soggy basement, or a laundry sump that keeps backing up—this is where a compact submersible really earns its keep. The DAB NOVA 300 M‑A is a popular drainage pick among water pumps NZ buyers who need a reliable, automatic pump for moving greywater and floodwater fast.

What it is

A compact submersible drainage pump with an automatic float switch (“A”), built to sit in a pit or low point and switch itself on as water rises—ideal for greywater and nuisance flooding.

Why we like it

Designed for simple, safe dewatering with minimal fuss, and easy to deploy in tight spaces.

• Automatic float: True plug‑and‑forget operation.
• Compact and light: Easy to position and service.
• Greywater‑ready: Suits laundry pits and stormwater.
• NZ‑available brand: Broad local parts and support.

Best for

Tidy, automatic removal of relatively clean or lightly dirty water around the home or shed.

• Laundry/greywater sumps and utility pits.
• Flooded garages, basements and under‑house spaces.
• Emergency dewatering from tanks or pools.

Key specs to check

Confirm the pump matches your pit, discharge run and water quality.

• Flow at head (L/min): Output at your lift height.
• Max head (m): Total lift to discharge point.
• Float clearance: Pit size and switch movement.
• Solids handling: Suitability for light debris/greywater.
• Discharge size & hose: Pipe diameter and fittings.
• Cable length & IP rating: Safe reach and protection.

Typical NZ price

Mid‑range for domestic drainage pumps; allow for hose, check valve and fittings. Confirm current NZ pricing with local retailers.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly stocked by pump specialists and major merchants:

• Pump Depot (supplies DAB)
• PumpShop
• Pumps Online
• Mitre 10
• Mico
• STIHL SHOP
• Watertech Plus
• Devan Tanks dealer network

Wrapping up

From quiet, variable‑speed house boosters to budget fixed‑speed units, rain‑to‑mains kits, jet pumps for the garden, slim bore submersibles and compact drainage pumps, you’ve now got a clear shortlist to match to your place. Get the basics right: required head (storeys and elevation), peak flow (simultaneous fixtures), noise tolerance, electrical supply, and protection against dry‑run and overheating. A quick measure and a spec check before you buy will save rework later.

If you’re kitting out a boat, camper or tiny home, you can browse pumps, hose and fittings at Action Outdoors and lean on local know‑how. Not sure which model suits? Take your fixture list, pipe sizes and approximate head heights to a NZ pump specialist for sizing and a firm price. Buy locally for warranty, parts and advice—then enjoy strong, reliable water pressure without the guesswork.