Best Inverter Generator NZ: Choosing the Right Size for Your Needs
The right inverter generator depends on the output you need and how you'll use it, not a single "best" model.
For camping, light trade and general backup, look at the 2-4kW range, enough for lighting, charging and a small fridge.
For regular trade use or standby power needing more headroom, the 4-7kW range covers heavier loads and longer runtime.
For extended runtime, job sites or powering multiple appliances, 7kW+ units with fuel injection are built for sustained use.
Who this guide is for
Campers and homeowners
Wanting quiet, portable power for camping, lighting and charging devices.
Tradies and small businesses
Needing reliable backup or on-site power with more headroom than the lightest units offer.
Job sites and extended-use buyers
Running multiple appliances or needing sustained runtime beyond a portable unit's typical duty cycle.
Decision table
| Factor | Light use (1-2kW) | Standard use (3-4kW) | Heavy-duty (7kW+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Charging devices, basic lighting | Camping, trade, general backup | Extended runtime, job sites, multiple appliances |
| Typical features | Ultra-portable, simple pull start | Electric or remote start options | Fuel injection, higher duty cycle |
| Parallel-capable | Not typically needed | Some models support linking two units | Usually run standalone at this output |
Riequip's current range by tier
Entry-level inverter generators
Honda EU10i (1kW, $1,690 + GST), Riequip's smallest, most portable inverter generator, suited to charging devices and basic lighting. Titan Envirogen 2400iS (2.0kW, silenced, $990 + GST), a lightweight option for basic camping and lighting needs.
Camping and trade inverter generators
Titan Envirogen 4600iE (4.0kW, electric start, $1,280 + GST) and Envirogen 5000iE (4.2kW, remote start, $1,790 + GST), suited to camping and general trade use. Honda EU22i (2.2kW, $2,260 + GST) and EU30is (3kW, 20-hour runtime, $4,260 + GST), Honda's inverter range for buyers wanting Honda-specific features and support.
Extended runtime and job-site inverter generators
Titan Envirogen 7800iE (6.5kW, remote start, $2,790 + GST) and Envirogen 9000iE (7.5kW, electric start, $2,290 + GST). Honda EU70is (7kW, electronic fuel injection, from $7,050 + GST), Honda's top-tier inverter model for extended runtime.
Linked-output kits
Honda EU22i x2 kit ($4,520 + GST) links two units to double combined output without stepping up to a single larger machine.
Site power and standby-grade options
Genmac Honda and Genmac Wonder pure-sine ranges (6.3-16kVA, $4,790-$12,280 + GST) and Titan's diesel inverter range (12kW, $11,990-$12,170 + GST), for sites with three-phase power or needing standby-grade diesel reliability.
Riequip's full inverter generator range is browsable at riequip.co.nz/collections/inverter-pure-sinewave-generators-1-12kva.
Why this recommendation fits
Inverter generator needs are best matched by output and runtime requirements rather than by brand alone. Sizing slightly above your everyday load (lighting, charging, a fridge, a power tool or two) gives headroom for appliances with a higher starting current than running current, which is the main reason buyers end up needing more output than they first expect.
When you need more than a single unit provides
If your combined load exceeds what one inverter generator covers, parallel-capable models can be linked to double output without moving up to a much larger, heavier single unit. For sites with three-phase power already available, or needing standby-grade diesel reliability, the 3-phase and diesel inverter ranges are built for that rather than the portable models above.
Limitations and alternatives
- Output figures are rated maximums; confirm the combined running and starting wattage of everything you plan to run before choosing a size.
- Prices and exact model availability change; confirm current pricing and stock with Riequip before purchasing.
- If you haven't yet decided between an inverter and a conventional generator, see Generator vs Inverter Generator: Which Should You Buy?
Supporting evidence
- Models, specifications and pricing referenced in this guide are drawn from Riequip's current inverter generator range at riequip.co.nz/collections/inverter-pure-sinewave-generators-1-12kva.
- Confirm exact requirements for your situation with a Riequip specialist before purchasing, as prices, specifications and stock availability are subject to change.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the best inverter generator in NZ?
- It depends on your output needs: a 2-4kW inverter generator covers most camping, light trade and backup use; 4-7kW suits regular trade or standby use with more headroom; 7kW+ units suit extended runtime and job-site use. Riequip's range includes both Honda and Titan Envirogen models across these tiers.
- What size inverter generator do I need?
- Add up the running wattage of everything you plan to use at once, then check the starting wattage of the largest single appliance (like a fridge), since starting current is usually higher than running current. Size to cover both.
- Can I run two inverter generators together for more power?
- Yes, parallel-capable models can be linked with a compatible kit to combine their output; Honda's EU22i is available as a ready-made parallel kit.
- What's the difference between a 2kW and 7kW inverter generator?
- A 2kW unit suits lighter loads like lighting, charging and a small fridge; a 7kW unit can run power tools and heavier appliances for longer, at a higher price and weight.