Doing laundry can be tedious and time-consuming. An efficient washing machine will improve your laundry game and save time for other essential tasks. However, choosing a washing machine means learning about all the little details to decide which best suits your or your family's needs.
To help you decide, we've researched washing machines on the New Zealand market and compiled the best five. Whether looking for top-of-the-line features or an affordable option, you will find the perfect model for your needs here. Ready? Let's start with our top three.
Our Top Picks
Out of the five options evaluated below, here are our top three washing machines for Kiwis:
Fisher & Paykel WH7560P2 WashSmart
Best front-loader washing machine with a 7.5 kg washing capacity, 6 wash programs, and energy and water ratings of 4.0 and 3.5.
Samsung WA14A8377GW Washer
Best heavy-duty top loader washer with a 14 kg washing capacity, 11 wash programs, and energy and water ratings of 4.0 each.
Electrolux EWF9024Q5WB Washer
Best energy-efficient washing machine with energy and water ratings of 5.0 and 4.5, 9 kg washing capacity, and 15 wash programs.
5 Washing Machines for New Zealanders
After reviewing, researching, and evaluating tons of washing machines in New Zealand, here are the best of the lot. Learn about each product's ideal use cases, pros, and cons to make a more informed decision.
1. Fisher & Paykel WH7560P2 WashSmart
Best Front Loader Washing Machine
Max Washing Capacity: 7.5 kg
Wash Programs: 6
Energy & Water Rating: 4.0, 3.5
Warranty: 2 years
The Fisher & Paykel WashSmart 7.5 kg WH7560P2 front loader boasts a range of smart technologies such as Auto Dose, which dispenses the correct amount of detergent for each load, an LCD touchscreen display with cycle selection, and an LED light to indicate when the cycle is complete. It also includes six wash programs: regular, delicate, wool, quick, allergy, and heavy, which, compared to others in this price range, is less.
WashSmart offers different cycle lengths, temperatures, spin speeds, rinse options, and more for customisation. With its Smart Drive technology, you can create customised cycles and alert beeps to suit your laundry needs. The front-loader has a delayed start, an automatic water level that shuts on and off the motor at automated water levels, and auto out-of-balance correction.
One of the biggest advantages of a front-loader washing machine is its greater energy efficiency compared to top-loader washing machines. The WashSmart uses up to 40% less electricity than a top-loader washing machine while reducing water usage by up to 30%. Combined with its 4.0-star energy efficiency rating, it's perfect for anyone looking to save on utility bills.
Pros
- Easy to install
- SmartDrive technology
- Quiet in operation
- SmartTouch controls
- Child-lock option
- Energy saving
Cons
- Expensive
- Fewer wash programs
2. Samsung WA14A8377GW Washing Machine
Best Heavy-Duty Top Loader Washer
Max Washing Capacity: 14 kg
Wash Programs: 11
Energy & Water Rating: 4.0, 4.0
Warranty: 2 years
The Samsung 14kg WA14A8377GW top-loader washing machine is ideal for heavy-duty washing, offering plenty of power and reliability. Its 14 kg capacity makes it suitable for large families. The machine has 11 wash programs, including cotton, heavy duty+, towels, bedding, water saving, baby care, quick wash, delicates, 40° C stain wash, rinse+ spin, and steam.
The top loader has advanced features like auto water levels, delay end, bubble storm technology, and a digital inverter motor for improved performance. It also has a fabric softener dispenser to help reduce fabric damage and extend the life of your cloth. The machine has a large door for easy loading and unloading and a display to monitor your wash cycles.
The 4.0-star energy and water-efficient Samsung washer will improve your laundry with reliable performance and offer great value for money.
Pros
- Child-lock function
- Ideal for family use
- Smartphone app connectivity
- VRT technology
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Can be difficult to install
- 700 rpm is disappointing
3. Electrolux EWF9024Q5WB Washing Machine
Best Energy-Efficient Washing Machine
Max Washing Capacity: 9 kg
Wash Programs: 15
Energy & Water Rating: 5.0, 4.5
Warranty: 2 years
The Electrolux EWF9024Q5WB front loader washing machine is an energy-efficient model with all the essential features to get your laundry done. It has a 9 kg capacity, a quick-wash program, a delay timer, a temperature control system, and a 1,400 rpm spin cycle. Its wash programs include cotton, mixed, energy saver, baby care, bedding, tub clean, vapour refresh, rinse+spin, sports, spin, wool, daily 60, quick 15, delicates, and favourite.
The 5-star energy-efficient washing machine also uses much less water per cycle, making it more cost-effective in the long run—no surprise it's 4.5-star rated for water efficiency. Plus, it's gentler on clothes, ensuring they last longer. Apart from a commercial 2-year warranty, Electrolux also covers an outstanding 10-year warranty for its inverter motor.
Pros
- Child safety lock
- UltraMix detergent system
- 6 temperature settings
- SensorWash technology
- Can add clothes after the wash program starts
- 10-year inverter motor warranty
Cons
- No smart app connectivity
- Not ideal for cold washing
- Can be a little noisy
4. Haier HWF75AW3 Washing Machine
Best Cheap Front Loading Washer
Max Washing Capacity: 7.5 kg
Wash Programs: 15
Energy & Water Rating: 4.5, 4.5
Warranty: 2 years
The affordable Haier 7.5 kg HWF75AW3 has a 7.5 kg capacity drum capable of handling enough laundry. Its intuitive display panel gives you access to a range of programmable functions, including 15 washing programs: bedding, bulky, cotton, delicate, drum clean, durable, express 15, hygiene, refresh, rinse and spin, shirts, spin, synthetics, towels, and wool.
The front loader has smart features such as auto weight detection, which automatically adjusts the cycle time and water levels based on the load size. A handy delayed start function lets the machine start at a time that suits you. In terms of performance, the HWF75AW3 has good spin performance at 1,200 rpm, reducing drying time and increasing efficiency.
In addition to its two-year warranty, it has a 4.5-star water and energy rating, making it one of the most energy-efficient models.
Pros
- Affordable
- Child-lock system
- Adjustable temperature control
- 1200 rpm maximum spin speed
- LED display
Cons
- Heavy unit
- Can be a bit noisy
5. Midea DMWM70G2 Washing Machine
Best Cheap Top Loading Washer
Max Washing Capacity: 7 kg
Wash Programs: 8
Energy & Water Rating: 2.0, 3.0
Warranty: 1 year
The Midea 7 kg DMWM70G2 is a budget-friendly top-loader washing machine with a capacity of 7 kg, making it perfect for small families. It has a 750 rpm spin cycle and an adjustable temperature range (0-40o C). The washer offers an automatic self-cleaning function, helping you keep your machine clean and free from residue, an alarm to remind you when the load is finished, and a magic filter to catch any lint left in the clothes after washing.
The cheap top-loader washing machine has eight wash programs: soft, normal, mix, quick 15, jeans, heavy, strong, and fast clean. If you're not keen on a top-loader, get the Haier front-loader, which has double the number of wash programs and spin speed. It’s also more energy- and water-efficient than Midea, which has a one-year warranty, compared to the standard two-year warranty offered by all washing machines on our list.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to operate
- Child safety lock
- Soft-close glass lid
- Delay start
Cons
- Low spin speed
- Low energy and water efficiency
- No smart app connectivity
- Only 1-year warranty
Types of Washing Machines Available
When shopping for a washing machine, you can choose between two main types: top-loaders and front-loaders. Both types have different features that can help you customise your laundry experience.
#1 - Top-Loading
Top-loader washing machines are more affordable than front-loader machines. They feature a lid at the top where clothes are added. This type of washing machine can also spin clothes faster, but it tends to use more water than front-loader machines.
Reasons to buy
- More affordable
- Easier to load and unload
- Faster than front-loading washing machines
- Can add extra items mid-cycle
- Large load capacity
- Short cycle duration
- Best suited for cold water washings
Reasons to avoid
- Noisy
- Less energy efficient
- May not clean clothes as well as front-loading machines
- Preferred for non-delicate fabrics
- Use more water and detergent for the washing operation
#2 - Front-Loading
Front-loader washing machines are more expensive but offer a larger capacity and generally use less energy and water. The lid is located at the front of the machine, and clothes are loaded through this opening. Front-loaders tend to be gentler on fabrics, making them better suited for delicate items.
Reasons to buy
- More energy efficient
- Better cleaning performance
- Less water is required for the washing operation
- Best suited for delicate clothes
- Quiet operation
- Fast spin duration
- Stackable
- Designed for both warm and cold water
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive
- Can be harder to load and unload
- Longer cycle duration
- Not all front loaders allow adding of extra items mid-cycle
How to Choose the Best Washing Machine?
Capacity, energy efficiency, water efficiency, spin efficiency, price, brand reputation, customer reviews, and advanced features are all important considerations when buying a washing machine.
#1 - Capacity
The capacity of a washing machine refers to the amount of laundry it can hold at once. Consider your household size and the amount of laundry you typically do when choosing the right capacity washing machine. A small capacity means you can't do bulk laundry at a go.
#2 - Energy efficiency
Consider the energy efficiency rating of the washing machine. To save on energy costs and minimise your environmental impact, look for a rating of at least three stars. However, even a one-star rating can save you money down the line. The more stars your washing machine has, the more efficient it is.
#3 - Water efficiency
Washing machines certified by WaterSense use less water than other models. Look for one with a WaterSense certification to save money on your water bill. Similar to the energy efficiency rating on your washing machine, the more stars it has, the more water-efficient it will be.
#4 - Spin efficiency
The spin efficiency of a washing machine determines how quickly the laundry is dried. The faster the spin, the quicker your washing machine removes water from your clothes or reduces the residual water left on thicker garments at the end of a wash cycle. A 1,200 to 1,400 rpm washing machine is ideal for most drying needs.
#5 - Features
Many modern washing machines have advanced features, such as steam cycles, sensor wash cycles, quick cycles, auto-dosing, out-of-balance, smart connectivity, delay start/stop options, etc. Before purchasing, consider what features you would like in a washing machine. The ideal features should improve your laundry experience.
#6 - Brand
It’s essential to research the brand reputation and customer reviews of any washing machine you’re considering. Look for machines with good customer feedback to ensure you get a quality product. Trusted brands also offer good product warranties for peace of mind.
#7 - Price
The price of a washing machine can vary greatly depending on its features and brand. Before making your purchase, research different models and compare prices. Determine your budget and find the best value for your money. We recommend factoring your washing machine's energy and water efficiency into your pricing. A good water and energy rating helps you save down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions on the use and maintenance of washing machines in New Zealand.
How much is a washing machine in New Zealand?
Expect to pay between NZD 500 and 3,000 for a washing machine. Front-loader washing machines are typically more expensive than top-loader washing machines, as they provide more efficient cleaning, better spin cycles, and additional features.
What is the right temperature for washing clothes in a washing machine?
Generally, it is best to use cold water (20° C/68° F) for delicate and wool items, while warm water (30° C/86° F) can be used for regular washes. Hot water (40° C/104° F) is best reserved for heavily soiled items. Still, pay attention to the temperature settings of your washing machine to ensure that your clothes are washed properly.
What is the difference between a top-loading detergent and a front-loading detergent?
Top-loader detergents are designed for traditional top-loader washing machines and are formulated to work with the agitator motion. Front-loader detergents are designed for the tumbling motion of front-loader machines and are formulated to produce fewer suds to prevent over-foaming. Use the right type of detergent in your washing machine to avoid excessive bubbling, buildup, and odour.
What to consider if buying a second-hand washing machine?
When buying a second-hand washing machine, it's important to inspect it thoroughly to ensure that there are no signs of wear or tear and that all the components are working properly.
Check for any rusty parts that indicate a water leak, and inquire about how long the owner has had the machine, how often they used it, and any issues they had with it. Also, check if the item is still under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Laura Kemp
Revolutionise Your Laundry
When buying a washing machine, you have many options. By considering capacity, ratings, features, price, and brand, you can narrow your options and find the best machine for your and your family's needs.
The washing machines mentioned above are excellent options with unique features and benefits. Remember to use the buying guide to shortlist and narrow your choices to choose the right washer.
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