Finding Your Perfect Fisher & Paykel Cooktop
When you choose a Fisher & Paykel cooktop, you're not just buying an appliance; you're investing in a legacy of smart design, user-friendly innovation, and enduring quality. These cooktops are designed to be the heart of a modern Kiwi kitchen, blending beautiful aesthetics with serious cooking power.
Why a Fisher & Paykel Cooktop Belongs in Your Kitchen
Picking a cooktop is about more than just how it cooks. It's about choosing the central point of your kitchen's daily life. For decades, Fisher & Paykel has been a mainstay in New Zealand homes, building a reputation on a simple truth: the kitchen is where we connect, create, and live. This philosophy shines through in every cooktop they make.
The brand's entire approach is built around making appliances that fit how you actually live. That means cooktops that are not only powerful and precise but also genuinely easy to use and a breeze to clean. Whether you're carefully simmering a sauce or searing a steak on high heat, the whole experience is designed to feel intuitive and enjoyable.
A History of Kiwi Ingenuity
At its heart, Fisher & Paykel is a story of New Zealand innovation. The company started back in 1934 and is still headquartered in East Tāmaki, Auckland. It has grown from a local importer into a global design leader in home appliances.
With nearly 90 years of history and over 420 patents to its name, the commitment to research and development is still firmly based in New Zealand. This ensures every product is built with a true understanding of our lifestyles. This local focus means you get appliances designed for real Kiwi homes, built to be a reliable partner for countless family meals.
"They aim to create modern designs that fit into a variety of spaces and layouts so that the kitchen is not only about cooking, but about being together, too."
It’s More Than Just a Cooking Surface
Bringing a Fisher & Paykel cooktop into your home is about enhancing your daily routine. It's the confidence you get from precise temperature control, the convenience of a surface that wipes clean in seconds, and the simple joy of using something that just works perfectly. The brand’s dedication to quality means your cooktop won't just meet your expectations—it will continue to exceed them for years.
To get a better feel for this iconic Kiwi brand, check out our deep dive into what makes Fisher & Paykel a top choice.
Choosing Your Cooking Style: Gas vs. Induction vs. Electric
Picking the right Fisher & Paykel cooktop is a lot like choosing the perfect knife for a chef—it all comes down to what you cook and how you like to cook it. The choice between gas, induction, and electric ceramic can feel a bit daunting, but it really just depends on your personal habits in the kitchen. Each one offers a completely different cooking experience, and there's a perfect fit for every type of home cook across New Zealand.
Think of it this way: a gas cooktop gives you that immediate, visual feedback of a live flame, something that chefs who love old-school, responsive control swear by. On the other hand, an induction cooktop feels like something from the future, using magnetic technology for incredible speed and safety. And then you have the electric ceramic cooktop, the master of sleek, minimalist design with a surface that's a dream to clean.
Cooktop Technology at a Glance
To make sense of it all, it helps to see the main differences side-by-side. This table breaks down what each technology brings to the table, helping you match a cooktop to your unique kitchen needs and cooking flair.
| Feature | Gas Cooktop | Induction Cooktop | Electric Ceramic Cooktop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Control | Instant, visual flame control | Precise, instant digital control | Gradual, consistent heat |
| Cooking Speed | Fast | Fastest (boils water ~50% faster) | Slower |
| Safety | Open flame, hot trivets | Surface stays cool, auto-shutoff | Surface stays hot after use |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate (heat loss to air) | Highest (~90% efficiency) | Good (~75% efficiency) |
| Cleaning | More complex (burners, trivets) | Easiest (flat, smooth glass) | Easy (flat, smooth glass) |
| Cookware | Works with all types | Requires magnetic pans | Works with most flat-bottomed pans |
Ultimately, whether you lean towards the raw power of gas, the smart efficiency of induction, or the simple elegance of ceramic electric, the best cooktop is the one that feels like an extension of your own hands in the kitchen.
The Power and Precision of Induction
If you're after speed and safety, induction is the clear winner. It’s pretty clever stuff—it uses a magnetic field to heat your cookware directly, not the cooktop surface itself. This means your water boils nearly twice as fast as it would on a gas or electric hob. A huge plus is that the glass surface stays cool to the touch, which is a massive relief for families with curious little hands.
Because the energy goes straight into the pot, it's also incredibly efficient, with very little heat escaping into your kitchen. The responsiveness is phenomenal. Turn the heat down, and the pan reacts instantly. Honestly, we see so many Kiwi renovators make the switch from gas to induction, and they never look back, especially when they realise how effortless the cleanup is.
The Timeless Control of Gas
For many passionate cooks, there's just no substitute for the hands-on control of a gas flame. A Fisher & Paykel gas cooktop lets you see the heat you're working with and make instant tweaks, whether you need a tiny flame for a delicate simmer or a roaring one for a perfect sear. It's a classic for a reason and remains the go-to for those who love traditional cooking methods.
The latest models have come a long way, too, often featuring powerful wok burners and heavy-duty cast-iron trivets that give you a stable, versatile cooking surface. Sure, they take a bit more elbow grease to clean than their flat-surfaced cousins, but for many home chefs, that raw power and intuitive feel are simply irreplaceable.
The key thing to remember is that one technology isn't automatically better than the other; the best choice is the one that clicks with your cooking style. Induction is king for speed and safety, while gas offers that unmatched visual control for more traditional cooking.
The Sleek Simplicity of Electric Ceramic
Electric ceramic cooktops are all about clean lines and a modern look that can blend right into any kitchen design. Their smooth, single-pane glass surface is incredibly simple to wipe down, making them a really practical option for busy households that value low maintenance.
They aren't quite as responsive as induction or gas, but they deliver consistent, reliable heat that’s perfect for all your everyday cooking tasks. When you're weighing up an electric ceramic against an induction model, it can be useful to calculate electrical energy consumption to get a rough idea of running costs. This can help you make a more informed decision based on long-term efficiency.
This image really drives home the point that a great cooking experience isn't just about one thing. It's about finding the right balance of raw power, fine-tuned precision, and the flexibility to cook what you want, when you want. That balance is at the very heart of the Fisher & Paykel design philosophy.
For an even more detailed comparison of different technologies, our comprehensive https://folders.co.nz/blogs/folders-home-learning-centre/kitchen-cooktops-guide-nz is packed with extra insights.
Discover The Features That Define Fisher & Paykel
When you look past the sleek glass and polished stainless steel, you'll find what truly sets a Fisher & Paykel cooktop apart: thoughtful features designed for real-life cooking. These aren't just specs on a checklist. They're practical innovations that make your time in the kitchen simpler, safer, and much more satisfying.
Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a parent juggling dinner time, these cooktops are built to give you more confidence and control. Let's dig into the key technologies that make the Fisher & Paykel experience so special.
Induction Technology That Adapts To You
For anyone leaning towards induction, Fisher & Paykel offers some incredible flexibility. The real star of the show is SmartZone, a feature that completely changes how you use your cooktop surface.
Imagine you've just pulled a large roasting pan from the oven and need to make gravy. Instead of trying to balance it awkwardly over one small cooking zone, SmartZone lets you link two zones together. They operate as one large, unified heat source, managed with a single control. This freedom means you can use oversized cookware like griddles, fish kettles, or big pans without worrying about hot spots and uneven cooking. It’s convenience, redefined.
This adaptive tech is brilliant for:
- Big family meals where you're using a large roasting pan.
- Weekend breakfasts on a long griddle for pancakes or bacon.
- Specialty dishes that call for non-standard pot sizes.
Ultimately, it means your cooktop works around your cookware, not the other way around.
Uncompromising Power For Gas Cooking
If you're someone who loves the raw, responsive power of cooking with gas, you’ll appreciate how Fisher & Paykel has engineered their burners for pure performance. The centrepiece on many of their gas models is the powerful dual-flame wok burner.
This isn’t just a single flame. It's a clever system of two independent flame rings you can control together or separately. This gives you an incredible range of heat, from an intense, roaring flame perfect for searing and stir-frying, down to a gentle, consistent simmer for delicate sauces. It’s this precise control that passionate cooks rave about, allowing for authentic techniques that other cooktops just can't replicate.
"The ability to go from a blistering sear to a gentle simmer on the same burner gives you a level of control that’s hard to beat. It's this type of thoughtful engineering that helps elevate your cooking from good to great."
This power, paired with continuous cast-iron trivets, creates a stable and robust cooking surface, letting you slide heavy pots and pans around with ease.
Safety As A Core Design Principle
A great cooktop isn’t just about power and performance; it has to be safe. Fisher & Paykel integrates crucial safety features that bring real peace of mind, especially in busy family kitchens. This commitment is clear across their entire range.
One of the most important innovations on their gas cooktops is the flame-failure safety device. If a burner’s flame is accidentally blown out, this device instantly cuts off the gas supply, preventing a dangerous leak. It’s a simple feature that makes a world of difference.
For their induction and electric models, other safety features take priority:
- CoolTouch Surfaces: With induction, only the pot gets hot, so the surrounding glass surface stays cool to the touch.
- Child and Key Locks: These prevent the cooktop from being switched on accidentally by curious little hands.
- Hot Surface Indicators: These indicator lights stay on until a cooking zone is completely cool and safe to handle, preventing nasty surprises.
These features work quietly in the background, ensuring that while you focus on creating delicious meals, your cooktop is looking out for your family. Of course, good ventilation is also a huge part of kitchen safety; you can learn how to choose your rangehood to perfectly complement your new appliance.
How to Select the Right Size and Style for Your Home
Choosing the perfect Fisher & Paykel cooktop is more than just a practical decision; it’s about finding the right fit for your space, your cooking style, and your kitchen's overall look. This is where you get to match the appliance to your life, making sure it not only slots into your benchtop but genuinely improves your daily routine. Think of it as creating a roadmap to a choice you'll be happy with for years to come.
First things first, you need to measure your available space. When you're eyeing up a new appliance, getting accurate measurements for home installations is absolutely crucial. Trust me, it’s the best way to avoid any nasty surprises on delivery day and ensures a smooth, seamless fit into your cabinetry. The same as for furniture. Would you choose a new lounge suite before ensuring it would fit in the room?
Matching Cooktop Size to Your Lifestyle
Fisher & Paykel offers a great range of sizes, designed to suit different kitchen layouts and cooking needs. The most common sizes you'll come across are the 60cm and 90cm models, and each one is a great match for a particular type of home chef.
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The Versatile 60cm Cooktop: This is the go-to size for most New Zealand kitchens. It’s a brilliant all-rounder, ideal for small families, couples, or anyone living in an apartment. A 60cm Fisher & Paykel cooktop gives you plenty of room for daily meals—from whipping up a quick weeknight stir-fry to simmering a weekend stew—without taking over a smaller kitchen.
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The Expansive 90cm Cooktop: If you have a larger family, love to entertain, or simply want more freedom while you cook, the 90cm cooktop is a fantastic choice. That extra width means more space between burners, so you can easily use multiple large pots and pans at the same time without things getting crowded. It’s the perfect hub for big family get-togethers or hosting dinner parties.
Creating a Cohesive Kitchen Aesthetic
Beyond just the size, think about how your new cooktop will look alongside your other appliances. One of Fisher & Paykel's biggest strengths is their cohesive design philosophy, which makes it easy to create a beautifully integrated kitchen. Their products all share a consistent style, from the elegant black glass to the brushed stainless steel finishes.
This focus on design is a huge part of their success. Fisher & Paykel Appliances holds the largest market share in New Zealand's Household Appliance Wholesaling industry, with revenue estimated at over NZD 269 million. That kind of figure shows a deep level of trust from Kiwis who appreciate a brand that understands modern home design.
For a truly seamless kitchen, consider pairing your cooktop with a matching wall oven. Our guide to choosing a Fisher & Paykel oven can walk you through finding the perfect partner for your cooktop, guaranteeing a unified and stylish finish. This creates a powerful cooking station that’s as stunning as it is functional.
Caring for Your Cooktop to Ensure Lasting Performance
Choosing a Fisher & Paykel cooktop is a great investment in your kitchen. But like any quality appliance, a little TLC is what keeps it performing beautifully day after day. Think of it like a new car; regular, simple maintenance is the key to it running smoothly and looking sharp for years to come. That care starts right from the beginning, with a proper installation.
Getting the Installation Right
For safety, performance, and your warranty, a correct installation isn't just important—it's essential. This is one of those jobs where calling in the professionals is non-negotiable.
- Gas Cooktops: These must be installed by a licensed and registered gasfitter. It’s a legal requirement here in New Zealand to make sure every connection is secure and completely free of dangerous gas leaks.
- Induction and Electric Cooktops: A certified electrician is needed to manage the high-power wiring. Incorrect electrical work is a serious fire hazard and can instantly void your appliance warranty.
It’s not just about the connections, either. Good ventilation is crucial. A quality rangehood does more than just whisk away steam and cooking smells; it helps manage excess heat, which can extend the lifespan of your cooktop. Always make sure the installation follows Fisher & Paykel’s specifications and meets local building codes.
Everyday Cleaning for Different Surfaces
The real secret to a gleaming cooktop? Clean little and often. Wiping up spills as they happen is far easier than tackling baked-on messes later. Your Fisher & Paykel cooktop has specific surfaces that need the right kind of care to avoid damage.
For a brilliant shine without the scratches, always use the right tool for the job. Abrasive scourers or harsh chemical cleaners are the enemies of a new cooktop, particularly on glass or stainless steel surfaces. Gentle, consistent care is far more effective.
For Induction and Ceramic Glass:
Let the surface cool down completely before you start. A soft, damp cloth paired with a cleaner made specifically for ceramic cooktops is your best bet. If you have stubborn, burnt-on spots, a special-purpose scraper held at a gentle 30-degree angle will lift the residue without scratching the glass.
For Gas on Steel Cooktops:
Once it's safe, wipe up spills straight away. The heavy-duty cast-iron trivets can usually be cleaned with hot, soapy water—just make sure you dry them thoroughly to prevent any rust. For the stainless steel base, use a microfibre cloth and a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner. Always wipe in the direction of the steel's grain to get a perfect, streak-free finish.
For more detailed cleaning advice, our guide on induction cooktop vs gas cooktop care offers some extra helpful tips.
Answering Your Fisher & Paykel Cooktop Questions
When you’re investing in a major kitchen appliance, it's normal to have a few last-minute questions. To help you feel completely confident in your choice, we’ve put together some of the most common queries we hear about the Fisher & Paykel cooktop range. Think of this as the final piece of the puzzle, covering those practical details that really matter.
We'll tackle everything from the real-world differences between cooking styles to what kind of pots and pans you’ll need. Let's get you that last bit of clarity.
Is a Fisher & Paykel Induction Cooktop Better Than Gas?
This is the big one, isn't it? The truth is, one isn't inherently "better" than the other. It really comes down to your personality in the kitchen. Fisher & Paykel have designed both their induction and gas models to be exceptional, so it's all about which one speaks to your cooking style.
Think of it this way: induction is like a high-performance automatic car. It’s incredibly fast, responsive, and efficient. Water boils in a flash, you get precise temperature control, and the surface stays cool to the touch, which is a huge bonus for families.
Gas, then, is the classic manual transmission. It gives you that raw, visual feedback of a live flame that many home chefs just love. The control is tactile and immediate. The best Fisher & Paykel cooktop for you is simply the one that feels right in your hands.
What Cookware Works on a Fisher & Paykel Induction Cooktop?
A fantastic and vital question. Induction cooktops are a bit like magic, but they need the right partner to work. The technology uses a magnetic field to heat the cookware directly, so your pots and pans must have a magnetic base.
Here’s a quick guide to what works:
- The Best Bets: Cast iron, enamelled cast iron, and most types of stainless steel are your go-to materials. They work beautifully with induction.
- The Magnet Test: The simplest check? Grab a fridge magnet. If it snaps firmly to the bottom of a pot or pan, you’re good to go. It's that easy.
- What to Avoid: Pure aluminium, copper, or glass cookware won't work on their own. The exception is if they have a special steel or iron plate bonded to the base specifically for induction.
Most new cookware will tell you if it's induction-compatible, often with a little coil symbol on the box or the base of the pan. It always pays to check before you buy.
How Do I Clean My Fisher & Paykel Glass Cooktop?
Keeping that sleek glass surface on your induction or ceramic cooktop looking pristine is actually quite straightforward. The golden rule is to avoid anything abrasive that could leave permanent scratches.
For daily wipe-downs, just wait for the surface to cool completely. Then, use a soft cloth and a specialised ceramic cooktop cleaner. This will cut through grease and spills without harming the glass.
For those stubborn, burnt-on spots, your best friend is a dedicated razor blade scraper made for cooktops. Hold it at a low angle (about 30 degrees) and gently lift the residue away. Never, ever use steel wool, abrasive scourers, or harsh chemical cleaners.
Can I Install a Fisher & Paykel Cooktop Myself?
While we love the Kiwi DIY spirit, this is one job that absolutely needs a professional. We strongly advise against installing a cooktop yourself, and for very good reasons.
Every Fisher & Paykel cooktop must be installed by a registered tradesperson to guarantee safety and protect your warranty.
- Gas models require a licensed gasfitter to make sure every connection is secure and up to code.
- Induction and electric models need a certified electrician to handle the high-power wiring safely.
Hiring a professional isn't just a suggestion—it's a requirement to meet New Zealand's safety regulations. More importantly, it’s essential for keeping your manufacturer's warranty valid.
At Folders, we're passionate about helping Kiwis create homes they love with high-quality, reliable appliances. Explore our full range of cooking solutions and find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Discover Your Ideal Fisher & Paykel Cooktop at Folders.co.nz