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The Ultimate NZ Fridge Buying Guide for New Zealand

Written by: Editor

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Time to read 6 min

Introduction To Our Fridge Buying Guide

Choosing the right fridge for your home can feel like a big decision—but with research it doesn’t have to be. Read our Fridge Buying Guide to get you off to a good start.


At Folders.co.nz , we stock one of the widest ranges of fridges and freezers in New Zealand , with options to suit every space, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, replacing an old appliance, or buying your first fridge, this guide will help you confidently navigate the latest styles, sizes, features, and technologies to make the best choice for your home.


Want to know more? Visit our store


What Type of Fridge is Right for You?

Fridges come in several different configurations, and the best choice depends on your household needs and kitchen layout. Top mount fridge freezers are one of the most common styles in New Zealand. They feature the freezer compartment above the fridge and are often more affordable, making them a great option for smaller homes or flats.


Bottom mount fridges, on the other hand, place the fridge compartment at eye level, making it easier to access fresh food. These models are popular for families who want convenience and improved energy efficiency. French door fridges are another popular choice, combining a wide double-door fridge on top with a freezer drawer below. They’re perfect for entertainers or larger households who need space for platters, drinks, and leftovers, and many come with stylish extras like plumbed water dispensers and ice makers.


Side-by-side fridges offer equal vertical space for fresh and frozen food, and are ideal if you regularly store a large quantity of frozen items. If you’re tight on space or need a secondary unit, bar fridges and compact fridges are ideal for small kitchens, home offices, or garages. They provide convenient storage for drinks and snacks and can easily tuck under benchtops or into cabinetry.

Best Side By Side Fridge Freezer For Families NZ

What Capacity Should You Choose?

Fridge capacity is measured in litres and should be chosen based on the size of your household and your typical food storage habits. For one to two people, a fridge between 200 and 300 litres will usually suffice. Families of three to four people typically need between 300 and 450 litres, while households of five or more will benefit from a capacity of 450 litres or more.


It’s important to consider not just the internal space, but also the external dimensions. Measure your available space carefully, including the height, width, depth, and clearance for doors to open fully. Don’t forget to account for ventilation space around the fridge, particularly at the back and sides.

Large Quad Style 4 Door Fridge For Family NZ

Energy Efficiency Matters

In New Zealand, choosing an energy-efficient fridge can help reduce your power bill and environmental impact. Look for models with high Energy Star ratings and efficient inverter compressors, which adjust power use based on cooling demand. Frost-free technology also helps save energy and reduces the hassle of manual defrosting. LED lighting, humidity-controlled crispers, and well-insulated compartments all contribute to better efficiency and food preservation.


Over time, an energy-efficient fridge can pay for itself in savings. At Folders, we display energy ratings clearly on all of our appliance product pages, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Don’t Overlook Noise Levels

If your kitchen is part of an open-plan space or your fridge sits close to bedrooms or living areas, noise levels become a key consideration. Look for fridges with noise levels below 40 decibels and features such as brushless inverter motors and vibration-reducing designs. These models operate more quietly, making them better suited for modern homes where the kitchen is the heart of the household.

Best French Door Fridge For Large Families NZ

Smart Features for Modern Living

Today’s fridges come packed with features designed to make life easier and food fresher. Humidity-controlled crispers help keep fruit and vegetables fresher for longer, while adjustable shelving allows you to customise your fridge interior to suit everything from tall bottles to large platters.


Many mid- to high-end models now include water dispensers—either plumbed or with refillable reservoirs—as well as ice makers, digital temperature controls, and door alarms. Some premium options offer smart connectivity, allowing you to monitor or control your fridge remotely via a smartphone app. Others include convertible zones, which can switch between fridge and freezer functions as needed.

Our Best Bottom Mount Fridge Freezer NZ

Smart Features for Modern Living

Today’s fridges come packed with features designed to make life easier and food fresher. Humidity-controlled crispers help keep fruit and vegetables fresher for longer, while adjustable shelving allows you to customise your fridge interior to suit everything from tall bottles to large platters.


Many mid- to high-end models now include water dispensers—either plumbed or with refillable reservoirs—as well as ice makers, digital temperature controls, and door alarms. Some premium options offer smart connectivity, allowing you to monitor or control your fridge remotely via a smartphone app. Others include convertible zones, which can switch between fridge and freezer functions as needed.

Consider the Brand, Warranty, and After-Sale Support

At Folders, we only stock brands with a proven track record of quality and reliability in New Zealand. Fisher & Paykel, Haier, Westinghouse, Beko, LG, and Mitsubishi all offer durable, energy-efficient fridges with great features and long service life. Most models come with at least a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, Though upon registration Beko's warranty can be extended to 5yrs for FREE.


We also back your purchase with local support, expert advice, and a friendly team that can help with delivery, installation, and after-sales service if anything goes wrong. When you buy from Folders, you’re supported every step of the way.

Best Mitsubishi Multi Drawer Fridge For Families NZ

Final Thoughts

Fridge prices can vary widely depending on the size, brand, and features. Entry-level top mount fridges start from around $500, while mid-range bottom mount or side-by-side models typically fall between $1,000 and $1,500. Premium French door or smart fridges can cost upwards of $2,000.


Although premium models cost more upfront, they usually deliver long-term value through energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and better food care technology. At Folders, we offer everyday low prices and flexible payment options to make premium appliances more accessible for Kiwi households.



Shop Fridges At Folders.co.nz

Whether you need a compact fridge for your flat , a family-sized French door fridge , or a budget-friendly top mount fridge to get the job done, Folders has it all. We offer nationwide delivery across New Zealand , expert customer support, and a wide range of fridges from brands you know and trust.


Explore our full selection of fridges and freezers online and enjoy a seamless shopping experience with honest pricing and local expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal temperature for a fridge and freezer?

To ensure food safety and energy efficiency: 

  • Fridge: Set between 1°C and 4°C .

  • Freezer: Maintain at -18°C or lower.

These temperatures help preserve food freshness and prevent bacterial growth. 

How long does a fridge freezer typically last?

On average, a fridge freezer has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years . Regular maintenance, such as cleaning coils and checking door seals, can extend its longevity.

Is it safe to place hot food directly into the fridge?

It's advisable to let hot food cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Placing hot items directly in the fridge can raise internal temperatures, potentially compromising the safety of other stored foods.

Why is there water pooling at the bottom of my fridge?

Water accumulation can result from:

  • Blocked or clogged drain tubes .

  • Improper levelling of the appliance.

Regular cleaning of drain tubes and ensuring the fridge is level can prevent this issue.

Can I store a fridge freezer in my garage?

Storing a fridge freezer in a garage is possible, but consider:

  • Ambient temperatures : Extreme cold or heat can affect performance.

  • Manufacturer guidelines : Some models are designed for garage use.

Always check the appliance's specifications before placing it in non-climate-controlled areas.

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