Diesel and Petrol Generators for Reliable Backup Power

Power cuts are unpredictable. A quality diesel or petrol generator gives you reliable backup power when you need it most. Whether you are protecting your home, keeping a business operational or supporting critical equipment, a standby generator ensures you stay in control.

Current Generation has been supplying and installing dependable diesel generators and petrol generators in NZ since 2006, tailored to residential, commercial and industrial applications. Every system is correctly sized, safely installed and built to perform when the grid goes down.

We are a national distributor of PowerLink diesel generators, which feature Perkins, Cummins and Kubota engines and use renowned Stamford and Leroy Somer alternators; models range from 6.6kVA through to 2000kVA.

PowerLink generators are built specifically for the Australian and New Zealand market and come with worldwide warranties.

We also supply Honda petrol generators for smaller applications.

Diesel Generators

Diesel generators are ideal for higher loads and longer runtime requirements. They are commonly used in commercial and industrial environments, as well as larger homes needing whole-property backup.

Key advantages include:

  • Strong performance under heavy electrical loads
  • Greater fuel efficiency over long run periods
  • Longer engine lifespan
  • Suitable for automatic standby systems
  • Reliable operation during extended outages

Diesel generators are well suited where reliability is critical, such as offices, workshops, manufacturing sites or homes with high energy demand.

 

Petrol Generators

Petrol generators are typically lighter-duty and well suited to residential or occasional backup use.

They offer:

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Portable options
  • Simple operation
  • Suitable for essential circuits or temporary power

Petrol generators are often chosen for emergency home backup, small businesses or as a supplementary off-grid support option.

 

Choosing Between Diesel and Petrol Generators

The right generator depends on how much power you need and how often you expect to use it.

  • Runtime – Diesel performs better for long-duration outages.
  • Load capacity – Diesel generally handles larger loads.
  • Fuel efficiency – Diesel is more efficient for continuous use.
  • Upfront cost – Petrol units are usually cheaper initially.
  • Maintenance – Diesel engines are built for durability under load.

We assess your energy demand and recommend the most practical solution based on performance, cost and reliability.

 

Generators and Solar Battery Systems

Generators and batteries serve different purposes and often work well together.

  • Batteries provide silent daily storage and short-term backup.

  • Generators supply high loads or extended runtime when solar production is low.

For off-grid or resilience-focused systems, combining solar panels, battery storage and a backup generator provides the highest level of energy security.

PowerLink

Founded in 2001, the PowerLink Group has been recognised as a rapidly growing and innovative manufacturer within the industry.

From the beginning, PowerLink has continually invested in developing technology to produce more cost effective and reliable energy sources for global users.

PowerLink began supplying the Oceania region, including Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, in 2006.

PowerLink generators have a 1 year warranty.

Powerlink Kubota-powered RK Series

The RK diesel generator series has a power range of 6.6kVA to 45kVA and are powered by the popular Kubota engine.

The RK series has been specially designed for small power consumptions.

Reliable and durable, units can be used as prime continuous power supply or in standby mode to supply quick emergency power.

Available in single phase PK model (6.6kVA to 45kVA) or three phase GMS model (10kVA to 45kVA).

Powerlink Cummins-powered EC Series

EC series diesel generator sets, with a power range from 30kVA – 1500kVA, are powered by a high quality Cummins engine and Stamford alternator.

These gensets are reliable and durable, which means that they can be used as prime continuous power supply and also provide stable standby power.

All EC series gensets provide three phase output.

Powerlink Perkins-powered EP Series

Our EP series of generators are powered by Perkins engines and Leroy Somer alternators to provide a power range of 10kVA – 2250kVA.

The EP series is reliable and durable, which means that they can be used as a prime continuous power supply, or simply as standby to supply quick emergency power.

Available in single phase PP model (9kVA to 60kVA) or three phase WPS model (10kVA to 2250kVA).

Honda

In 1965, Honda released its first commercially available portable generator, the E300.

Since then they have been providing clean, reliable electricity in the most extreme locations.

Honda Generators provide smooth, uninterrupted electricity wherever you may be, so you’re safe to plug in your laptop, or any other sensitive electronic equipment.

Due to their quiet nature you can use these generators anywhere.

Honda EG5500CXS petrol generator

Robust and powerful, framed petrol generator ideal for commercial, rural and
backup emergency power use.

  • 8.3 amp/12 volt DC, maximum AC output 5.5 KW
  • Continuous Operating Hours 8.1 at 5KW
  • GX390 Engine
  • Large fuel tank capacity – 24 litres
  • Reduced noise with large muffler 71dB(A) @ 7 metres
  • Electric start with the option for auto-start
  • 2 x 15 amp outlets
  • Dry Weight 89kg

Ancillary Generator Parts

Current Generator are stockists of both Kutai genset parts and Dingol alternators

Kutai Electronics Generator Parts

Current Generation are authorised distributors of Kutai generator set parts. Their product range includes:

  • Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVR)
  • Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
  • Remote Monitoring
  • Generator Control Units, including Auto-start Modules

Kutai products are all Taiwan-made.

Dingol Alternators

We are stockists of Dingol alternators.

Dingol alternators are available in both single and two-bearing configurations, from 8.1kVA through to 350kVA.

Contact your power expert

Current Generation Ltd

129 Pascoe Street, Annesbrook, Nelson 7011

Generator FAQs

 

What is better, a diesel or petrol generator?

Diesel generators are better for higher loads and longer runtime. Petrol generators are more suitable for lighter, occasional use and lower upfront cost.

How big a generator do I need for my property?

This depends on your total electrical load and any high-start equipment such as pumps or compressors. We calculate the correct size based on your usage and whether you want whole-property or essential-circuit backup.

Can a generator power a whole house or building?

Yes, if correctly sized. Some systems power essential circuits only, while larger standby generators can support an entire property.

Do generators start automatically during a power cut?

Yes, when fitted with an automatic transfer switch. The generator detects a grid outage, starts automatically and shuts down once power is restored.

How long can a diesel generator run continuously?

Diesel generators are designed for extended runtime and can operate for many hours or days, depending on fuel capacity and servicing intervals.

Are generators noisy?

Modern standby generators are enclosed and significantly quieter than older models. Noise levels depend on size and installation location.

Do generators need regular servicing?

Yes. Regular servicing ensures reliability and long engine life. Maintenance schedules depend on runtime and manufacturer guidance.