Review of gas distribution Standard

1 April 2025

A Standard that’s integral to the distribution of gas across New Zealand – both for natural gas and LPG networks – is being comprehensively reviewed to bring it up to date.

The review of AS/NZS4645:2018 Gas distribution networks will kick-off in late April with a meeting of the committee responsible for developing and maintaining Australian and New Zealand Standards related to gas distribution networks (AG-008) in Melbourne.

Powerco’s Bruce Monk is GasNZ’s representative on the committee.

The committee will outline the works plan of the revision across the Standard’s three parts: Part 1: Network management; Part 2: Steel pipe systems; and Part 3: Plastic pipe systems.

The revision aims to update the Standard to include lessons learnt over the past five years, modifying it to address inconsistences and improve clarity.

It will be updated to account for renewable gases, including biomethane and the use of 100 percent hydrogen in gas distribution networks.

The updated Standard will include elements of industry guidelines and research publications, while ensuring consistency to support technical regulations, network operators, manufacturers, constructors, and supplies.