Can't decide which washing machine to buy? Find the best washing machines in New Zealand with our buying guide and expert picks. Read test reviews for front- and top-loading washing machines from Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, Haier and more.
On this page
- Find the perfect washing machine for your laundry
- Best washing machines of 2025
- What you need to know when buying a washing machine in New Zealand
- Get the most out of your washing machine
- Can't decide what you're looking for?
- People's Choice
- What are the most reliable washing machine brands?
- Which laundry detergents should you use?
- Other appliances for your laundry
- How we test washing machines
Find the perfect washing machine for your laundry
We review washing machines to find the best ones for real-world use. Our expert reviews are based on results from testing, member surveys and our decades of experience. We’ll only recommend washing machines you’ll love to own, that work well and will keep working well for a long time.
Our washing machine reviews include how well each washing machine performs for:
• Dirt removal
• Rinsing
• Spin efficiency
• Gentleness
• Noise
• Water and electricity use
Plus, see the latest prices, product specs and features, member reviews and more.
Best washing machines of 2025
Find the best washing machine to suit your needs.
Are you looking for an affordable option or large capacity washing machine, or one with the latest technology and features?
Top performing front loaders
Top performing top loaders
Best budget buy
Best large capacity
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What you need to know when buying a washing machine in New Zealand
A new washing machine should last 10 years or more, so it's important to make the right choice. Our buying guide explores the different types and key features of washing machines along with information on the machines’ energy and water efficiency.
Front or top load? We explain the difference between a front and top loader – which washing machine is better?
Water efficiency: How much water does a typical washing machine use?
Cold washes: We tell you when you should use a cold or warm wash.
Capacity: We explain how to choose a washing machine size.
Get the most out of your washing machine
Learn how to improve your washing machine's performance with our expert advice. Discover how to keep your washing machine clean, as well as money-saving laundry tips.
How to care for your washing machine
A little care and maintenance could extend your washing machine’s lifespan and save you money, so how do you clean and service your machine?
How to fix your washing machine
What can go wrong with a washing machine and what can you do to keep yours spinning? We explain how to fix six common washing machine faults.
10 ways to save money doing the laundry
We’ve put together tips to help you bring down the cost of washing your clothes.
How to save water in the laundry
One of the easiest ways to reduce your water consumption is to tweak your laundry routine.
3 laundry tips to prevent germs spreading
During normal daily wear or use, clothing, household linens and cleaning cloths pick up bacteria, viruses and fungi. To minimise the chances of catching (or passing on) a lurgy, we suggest a three-pronged attack when it comes to washing your laundry.
Are you making any of these 10 laundry mistakes?
Get the most out of your washing machine by avoiding these common mistakes.
What's the best way to wash your clothes?
Here’s our hints and tips for getting the top results with your laundry.
Can't decide what you're looking for?
Whether you’re dealing with large washing loads or a small space, we guide you in choosing the right washing machine for your home.
People's Choice
Our People's Choice awards are granted to brands that consistently rate above average for customer satisfaction and meet out other performance criteria. Become a member and see which brands have earned a People’s Choice award.
What are the most reliable washing machine brands?
We asked thousands of Consumer members about their experience with products they've used to find out which brands are most reliable and satisfying to own. The results are available to members and Digital Pass holders.
Which laundry detergents should you use?
We’ve tested over 60 laundry detergents and 20 stain removers and found which are best at cleaning your washing and removing a wide range of stains.
Other appliances for your laundry
If you also need a new clothes dryer, perhaps consider a washer dryer. Check our test reviews for washer dryers and clothes dryers, plus irons and steam stations.
How we test washing machines
Washing machines are tested in an independent lab to accurately measure how well they perform.
The overall score combines test performance with predicted reliability (how likely models from the brand are to remain free of faults) and brand satisfaction (how likely owners of the brand are to be very satisfied).
We’ll only recommend washing machines you’ll love to own, that work well and will keep working well for a long time.