The biggest reason Auckland CCTV systems fail in year two isn’t the cameras, it’s the cabling and config nobody asked about during the quote. Below is the 12-question checklist we wish every Auckland buyer ran through before signing. Each question has a clear right answer; if your installer dodges any of them, walk away.
“Most Auckland CCTV systems we get called to fix were installed by a ‘mate’s mate’ who knew cameras but not cabling. The cameras are fine; the install is the problem.”
Is the installer Site Safe and Impac certified?
For commercial sites, both are non-negotiable. Site Safe means they’re trained for safe site work; Impac is pre-qualification by major NZ commissioning bodies. Ask for current cert numbers, not just verbal yes.
What cable do you use, and is it pure copper or copper-clad aluminium?
Right answer: solid pure copper Cat6 (or RG6 for analog). Wrong answer: “Cat6 cable” without specifying. Copper-clad aluminium is half the price and a third the performance, common in cheap installs.
Will you give me a labelled patch panel and cable schedule?
Right answer: yes, every cable labelled, patch panel diagram in a folder. Wrong answer: “the cables are too short to label.” Without labels, every future change costs you 4x as much in callouts.
What’s included in the price, config, mobile app, handover?
Right answer: hardware + cabling + NVR setup + mobile app config + 30-minute handover. Wrong answer: “that’s extra.” Bundled config-and-handover should be standard at any reputable installer.
What warranty covers the install?
Right answer: 12-month workmanship + 2-5 year manufacturer warranty on hardware. Wrong answer: “the cameras have a manufacturer warranty.” That doesn’t cover install workmanship, different thing.
What does picking the wrong installer cost?
Most Auckland CCTV redos we get called to are 18-30 months old. Average redo cost: NZD 3,200, almost always for cabling, not cameras. The original installer saved NZD 400 on cheap cable and labels; the customer paid 8x to fix it. The difference between a good and bad CCTV installer is almost entirely in the cabling, not the cameras.
Frequently asked questions
How much should a 4-camera Auckland CCTV system cost in 2026?
Hikvision, Dahua or Uniview, which is best?
Can I monitor my CCTV from my phone?
Should I get analog or IP cameras?
Do you do schools, retail and hospitality?
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Reviewed by Namra Shah, Founder & Director of Cabling For U. Cabling For U has been delivering certified network cabling, fibre and CCTV installations across Auckland since 2018, installing to TIA/EIA and AS/NZS 3080 standards.