Best Fridge Freezers 2022 - The Definitive New Zealand Guide

Find the best fridge freezers with our definitive guide, including four of the best models from brands such as LG and Samsung, among others

Updated 13 October 2021

Our guides outlines the different types of fridges, their pros and cons, and what to consider when choosing one. In addition, we will include what we believe to be the best fridges you can get by type. Our guide covers:

Types of Fridge Freezers

The most common types of fridge freezers in New Zealand are:

Top Freezer Refrigerator
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Side-by-Side Refrigerator
French Door Refrigerator

The ideal type of freezer for you will depend on several factors, which we outline in detail below:

Top Freezer Refrigerator

This is the traditional refrigerator, also known as a top-mount freezer. Its name has to do with the fact that the freezer is located on top of the fridge. In this type of refrigerator, each compartment has a separate door that opens from the side. Since its conventional design has been on the market for many years, it is usually the most economical type of fridge as it rarely has high-tech features.

Top-Freezer Refrigerator, What We Like

Budget-friendly. If you are looking for a low-cost refrigerator, then top-mount freezers are for you. These fridges are usually basic, with no ice maker or water dispenser, making them very economical.
Classic style. Depending on the décor of your kitchen, these fridges could be your best solution. The charm of the classic style of the top freezer has led some manufacturers to offer them in different colours and retro designs.
Easy access to the freezer. One of the biggest advantages of these fridges is having the freezer at a comfortable height. This makes them an ideal solution for those who plan to use them as a secondary fridge for freezing food.
Plenty of fridge space.
Freestanding design. Most top-freezers are freestanding, which makes them very versatile as you can easily relocate them. Moreover, since the simpler models do not have an ice maker or water dispenser, all you need to do is plug them into an outlet, and you're ready to go.

Top-Freezer Refrigerator, What We Dislike

Require more door clearance. Because of their wide doors, top-mount freezers require greater clearance in your kitchen. This can be a major drawback, especially for households with small kitchens.
Limited freezer space. Usually, this type of refrigerator favours the space in the lower compartment, which leaves little room for the freezer. This is one of the most important aspects to consider as it can limit your options for freezing food in medium or large containers.
Poor ergonomics. One of the reasons why this design has evolved is because of its poor ergonomics. Since the fridge compartment is at the bottom of the fridge, this means that you have to bend down every time you reach for food.

Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

You can think of these refrigerators, also known as bottom-mount, as the reverse design of top freezers. The fresh food compartment becomes conveniently located at the top and the freezer at the bottom, with access either through a door or a drawer. In general terms, the features of these refrigerators are very similar to those of top-mount freezers, so they tend to be economical and compact.

Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, What We Like

Budget-friendly. Like their cousins, the top-mount freezers, these models are often very economical as they are available with or without an ice maker and water dispenser.
Convenient layout. There is no doubt that the simple layout change of placing the freezer at the bottom improves the ergonomics of these refrigerators. Access to food and beverages is easier and more convenient.
Modern style. Although their design is also classic, it is more common to find "modern" models with different exterior finishes to suit your kitchen.
Plenty of fridge space. The storage area of bottom freezers is usually generous, especially in the top compartment. This is one of the advantages that make them so popular in New Zealand.
Freestanding design. Another aspect these refrigerators share with top freezers is their versatility. Most are of the freestanding design, which means they are easy to relocate inside the kitchen or even outside.

Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, What We Dislike

Require more door clearance. A disadvantage shared by top- and bottom-freezers is that they require more space to open their doors. This may be inconvenient if the kitchen counter is too close to the refrigerator.
Somewhat limited freezer space. It is common in this type of refrigerator to favour space for fresh food and limit freezer space.
Few advanced features. While many models have both an ice maker and a water dispenser, this type of fridge rarely has state-of-the-art technologies, such as those for energy conservation or different temperature zones.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Side-by-side refrigerators have become the de facto standard in many New Zealand households. The reason is simple to understand, as they have two doors that open from the centre, placing the freezer on one side and the fridge on the other. This arrangement combines the ergonomic advantages of the top-mont and bottom-mount freezers in one unit. In addition, the vertical layout of the compartments allows manufacturers to include special drawers or sub-compartments with independent temperature control. Not to mention that most of these refrigerators come with built-in ice makers and water dispensers.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator, What We Like

Slim style. You can get a wide range of designs on the market, from classic to modern and daring. Polished metal surfaces, wood finishes, coloured surfaces, mirror-like covers, everything you can imagine.
Better ergonomics. The selling point of the side-by-side fridges is their excellent ergonomics. Their design allows you to place food and beverages at eye level, both in the freezer and in the fridge. Similarly, it gives you the flexibility to store less frequently used items at the bottom of both compartments.
Energy-efficient. As these are one of the most popular refrigerators, they are often equipped with electronic controllers and special compressors focusing on low power consumption. This partially compensates for the fact that they tend to have a larger capacity than conventional refrigerators.
Require small door swing space. The vertical doors of side-by-side fridges need much less space to open, making them ideal for compact kitchens.
Plenty of space. Depending on the model, you can choose between medium and high-capacity refrigerators, which is ideal for large families. Moreover, since most recent models feature adjustable shelves, door bins, and special compartments, you can make better use of the available space.
Freestanding or built-in design. Generally, this type of refrigerator is available in both freestanding and built-in design, which allows you to adjust it to the type of kitchen you want.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator, What We Dislike

Bigger than classic fridges. This type of refrigerator is usually taller and wider than its conventional counterparts. For this reason, you should measure the available space in your kitchen, as there is no standard size for fridges of this type.
Somewhat narrow compartments. Due to their vertical doors, the width of the compartments is usually smaller, especially the freezer compartment. You should consider this as if you freeze large containers; this could be a major limitation.
Could be expensive. Depending on the features, model, and brand you choose, this type of fridge can be considerably more expensive than top-mount freezers.

French Door Refrigerator

French door refrigerators combine all the advantages of the designs discussed so far. An evolutionary step above side-by-side fridges, these refrigerators provide even better convenience, more advanced features, more usable storage space, and unique styling. All in all, this is the type of refrigerator for Kiwis looking for the best of the best.

French Door Refrigerator, What We Like

Stylish. While this is a subjective factor, it could be said that this is one of the most stylish and modern design refrigerators available today. This is also due to the fact that French door refrigerators are considered to be high-end products, which is why they are available in different materials and finishes.
Wide shelves. The biggest advantage of these coolers is their convenience. At the top, there are two doors giving access to the fresh food area, and at the bottom, there is a large freezer drawer. This layout gives you a huge amount of useful space for storing any kind of item.
Energy-efficient. As the fridge is divided into two sections, this allows manufacturers to improve design and energy efficiency as each compartment has independent temperature control.
Up to date features. While it is true that side-by-side fridges have many features, it is the French door refrigerators that come with the most advanced technologies. This is the ideal fridge for gadget lovers, from WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, integrated LCD screens, remote access, and more.
Freestanding or built-in design. The versatility of these refrigerators allows you to choose the type of installation that best suits your kitchen.

French Door Refrigerator, What We Dislike

Quite bulky. Even the "smaller" refrigerators with this design often take up a good amount of space. That's why we suggest considering the available space, as these fridges are intended for large kitchens, with enough space for them.
Ice dispensers may claim too much space. The ice maker, water dispenser, controls, display, and so on usually take up a good amount of space. For this reason, we suggest you check each model carefully.
Expensive. The advantages of French door refrigerators come with a price. Expect to pay a good amount of money for these fridges, as they are premium products.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Fridge Freezer in New Zealand

When choosing which refrigerator is best for your family, consider the following factors.

Size: Size matters when it comes to refrigerators. Depending on the layout of your kitchen and the space available, one fridge freezer may be more suitable than another.
Style: Style is often one of the decisive buying factors. Bear in mind that the refrigerator will probably be with you for 10 years. For this reason, it is important that you take the time to choose the finish, colour, and style that best suits your preferences.
Budget: Obviously, price is always a determining factor. However, our recommendation is to think in the long term. A refrigerator is an investment. Favour well-known brands with a presence and technical support in NZ; this will save you a lot of headaches.
Family size: If you have a large family, your best alternative is to opt for side-by-side or French door fridges. Conversely, if you have a family of 2 or 3, then you may want to consider top-freezers or bottom-freezers as an option.
Layout: Before buying a fridge, you should ask yourself what kind of food you store most frequently. If you freeze a lot of food, then you should prefer models with a larger freezer. On the other hand, if you rarely use the freezer, you should prefer models that offer a generous amount of space for fresh food.
Capacity: Fridge freezers are usually listed by capacity in cubic inches. However, these values can be misleading. Our recommendation is to carefully check the "usable space" available, taking into account internal compartments, trays, drawers, etc.
Energy consumption: Last but not least is the consumption of electricity. Refrigerators are one of the appliances that have the most influence on the electricity bill. Don't forget this when checking the manufacturer's specifications.

Four of the Best Fridge Freezers Available in New Zealand Right Now

Choosing the best fridge freezer currently available in New Zealand is not an easy task. We have compiled our list (in no particular order) based on average consumer reviews collected from consumer.org.nz as well as other sources both in New Zealand and overseas.

1. Best Top Mount Fridge Freezer: LG 332L Top Mount Fridge with Door Cooling

More details: LG 332L Top Mount Fridge with Door Cooling
Pricing: From $799

What We Like	What We Dislike
Brushed exterior Compact dimensions LINEARCooling and DoorCooling technologies Great value	Limited freezer storage Rather basic features

One of the best Top Mount Fridge Freezers you can buy in New Zealand is undoubtedly the LG 332L Top Mount Fridge. Despite its classic design, this compact fridge includes a convenient sliding ice tray, a quiet, state-of-the-art linear compressor with a 10-year warranty, and an innovative Multi Air Flow system that maintains a stable temperature throughout the fridge. In addition, its Moist Balance Crisper design allows you to keep vegetables fresher for longer. In short, for a price similar to products from unknown brands, LG gives you a quiet refrigerator with low power consumption. Not bad for an entry-level fridge.

LG 332L Top Mount Fridge with Door Cooling Key Features

Recommended for: Small to medium families
Dimensions: 600 x 1692 x 665 mm
Total Capacity: 332L
Freezer Capacity: 85L
Energy Consumption: 279kWh/year
Key Features: LINEARCooling and DoorCooling technologies, moving ice tray

2. Best Bottom Freezer: LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling in Stainless Finish

More details: LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling in Stainless Finish
Pricing: From $1,249

What We Like	What We Dislike
Brushed Stainless Steel exterior Surround Cooling Reversible door Multi Air Flow	Rather expensive

While more expensive than its top-mount cousin, this LG fridge comes equipped with several interesting improvements. For one, its bottom mount design allows you to expand the freezer capacity to 123L, while its high-tech compressor keeps the power consumption almost the same. As for the fridge, the use of LED lights, DoorCooling, and Multi Air Flow keep all your food fresh and at an ideal temperature. However, the feature that has made us include it in this list is its reversible hinged doors, which can be adjusted to swing open to the right or left. This alone makes it one of the most versatile fridges on the market as it can be adjusted to suit any type of kitchen.

LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling Key Features

Recommended for: Small to medium families
Dimensions: 595 x 1720 x 677 mm
Total Capacity: 335L
Freezer Capacity: 123L
Energy Consumption: 293kWh/year
Key Features: DoorCooling, reversible doors, Multi Air Flow

3. Best Side-by-Side Freezer: Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge

More details: Samsung 676L Side-b y-Side Fridge
Pricing: From $2,699

What We Like	What We Dislike
Black finish Metal Cooling Large capacity Power Deodoriser	Lack of advanced features

If you are looking for a large capacity fridge, then this is a good alternative. With approximately double the gross capacity of the previous two models, this side-by-side fridge gives you space to store all your food conveniently. The Power Deodoriser is a welcome feature to keep away strong odours, as well as the Metall Cooling technology which helps to keep the temperature stable after opening the doors. In addition, the digital inverter motor improves energy efficiency to minimise the impact on your electricity bill.

Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features

Recommended for: large families
Dimensions: 1780 x 716 x 610 mm
Total Capacity: 676L
Freezer Capacity: 247L
Energy Consumption: 557kWh/year
Key Features: Power Deodoriser, Metal Cooling

4. Best French Door Fridge Freezer: Samsung 637L Family Hub French Door Fridge

More details: Samsung 637L Family Hub French Door Fridge
Pricing: From $6,488

What We Like	What We Dislike
Family Hub Food AI Premium flat look Flexible storage	So Quite expensive Could be too advanced for some

We close our list with an appliance that looks more like a SmartTV than a refrigerator, the fabulous Samsung Family Hub French Door Fridge. Its gigantic integrated screen allows you to perform a myriad of activities from the comfort of your kitchen. Watching TV, answering calls, searching for recipes, controlling other devices, all this and more is possible thanks to the Family Hub. Moreover, its four compartments allow you maximum flexibility for temperature control and food preservation. This coupled with other exclusive features such as the integrated water pitcher and Dual Auto Ice Maker, make it one of the most advanced fridges in New Zealand.

Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features

Recommended for: large families
Dimensions: 912 x 1825 x 723 mm
Total Capacity: 637L
Freezer Capacity: 247L
Energy Consumption: 568kWh/year
Key Features: Autofill Pitcher, Family Hub

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