How to Choose the Best Locations for Public EV Chargers
Learn how to choose the best locations for public EV chargers in New Zealand. Practical tips from EVSE NZ to ensure your charging sites are accessible, safe, and future-ready.
EVSE NZ
As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow across New Zealand, the demand for accessible, reliable public charging is increasing right alongside it. But installing public EV chargers isn’t just about ticking a box or filling a gap in the network — choosing the right location is critical.
From shopping centres to community hubs, where we place chargers directly affects how often they’re used, how people feel about EV ownership, and how well we support a sustainable future. Here are some practical things to consider when deciding where to install public EV chargers.
Choose High-Use Areas
The best locations are places where people already go — supermarkets, retail centres, event venues, and busy main streets. These areas naturally attract high foot and vehicle traffic, meaning your chargers are more likely to be used regularly.
Prioritise Longer Dwell Times
Charging takes time, especially at AC charging speeds. That’s why it makes sense to place chargers in spots where people are likely to stay for 30 minutes or more. Think gyms, movie theatres, restaurants, and office buildings. For faster DC chargers, locations with slightly shorter stays — like fast food outlets or motorway rest stops — also work well.
Make It Easy to Access
Convenience is key. Chargers should be clearly signposted, easy to find, and simple to access — no confusing layouts or awkward parking. Drivers should feel confident they can plug in without hassle, which encourages repeat use.
Safety Can’t Be Overlooked
People need to feel safe while charging, especially at night or in quieter areas. That means good lighting, visible surroundings, and ideally, placement near other businesses or services that are open late. A well-lit charger in a busy spot will always be more inviting than one tucked away in a dark corner.
Check Power Availability
The site also needs to support the electrical demand of charging infrastructure. We always recommend checking local grid capacity before committing to a location, especially for rapid or high-power chargers. It’s important to plan for today’s needs — and tomorrow’s.
Build with the Bigger Picture in Mind
Charging infrastructure doesn’t just belong in cities or along highways. A truly effective network also includes suburban streets, regional towns, and community centres. It’s about giving more people more reasons to go electric — no matter where they live or work.
Final Thought
Choosing the right location for public EV charging stations is about more than just installing hardware. It’s about putting yourself in the driver’s shoes, thinking practically, and building infrastructure that people can genuinely rely on.
At EVSE NZ, we work closely with councils, businesses, developers, and site owners to deliver public EV charging station solutions that fit the environment and future demand. From initial planning through to installation and support, we’re here to make charging more accessible across Aotearoa — one smart location at a time.
