[Shana F]

OK, I understand that NZ houses are notoriously drafty, and that this is a particuarly sensitive issue in Dunedin (where we are moving). I've been told that double glazing, insulation, and sunny lots are important to grab if you can get them. All that aside ...

How effective are heat pumps? Do they only heat the one room where they are located, or do they heat the whole house? In terms of the heat they generate, are they a lot better than wood burners, or is it just that they are cleaner? What about multifuel burners (I don't even have a good concept of what that is ...)?

Do people use space heaters to compensate in rooms that don't get as much heat? Finally is central heating just completely unheard of in NZ? I don't think I've seen it advertised in any of the real estate ads.

[willsken]

Central heating is not at all common here. You can get it though if you want to spend the money, it's just not cheap. We looked into as I hated the first couple of winter months. We installed a wood burner as they are cheaper to run than a heat pump especially when I like a really really warm house. We have also a heat transfer kit but haven't used it yet so can't tell you if that's a good option or not. I think the most important think to look for when buying a house is insulation. Our house is really well insulated but the flat on the side isn't. It's amazing the difference in the temperature between the 2.