Generator safety tips

Using generators
safely in the event of a power outage

MainPower is committed to providing a safe and reliable electricity supply to all customers, but we cannot guarantee an uninterrupted supply of power. The fact sheet below is designed to inform you about using generators safely in the event of a power outage.

We’re here to help. Get in touch if you need help. Or, check out our FAQs.

Safety precautions

From time to time, your power supply may be interrupted. 

This can happen because of wind or snow storms, or due to planned maintenance on the network. Portable generators (stand-alone type not requiring an electrician) can be useful to maintain critical “plug-in” type appliances until power is restored.

Generators may be hazardous if used incorrectly. The following tips – and a detailed understanding of your specific generator’s instructions – can help avoid dangerous situations.

Need a generator?

How can MainPower help?

We can help customers affected by an outage by:

The following hire companies service North Canterbury.

Phone 03 344 1500
39 Braeburn Drive, Hornby, Christchurch

Phone 03 314 8665
15 Markham Street, Amberley

Phone 03 313 4518
1 Ryans Place, Rangiora

Phone 03 319 7183
170 Beach Road, Kaikōura

Phone 03 313 7080
19 Southbrook Road, Rangiora

Phone 03 323 8029
1190 Main North Road, Belfast, Christchurch

Phone 03 313 7336
12 Newnham Street, Rangiora

We’re here to help

If you need some assistance or advice, please get in touch with our team.

Outage notifications

No current notifications

Is your outage not listed?

Troubleshoot your outage
Treat all lines as live during the outage period; power may be restored at any time. If you require further information, please call MainPower’s 24-hour faults line. To report an emergency, call 111.

Outage notifications

No current notifications

Is your outage not listed?

Troubleshoot your outage
Treat all lines as live during the outage period; power may be restored at any time. If you require further information, please call MainPower’s 24-hour faults line. To report an emergency, call 111.

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