Smart Locks. I really want to put together a news article on smart locks

Why Smart Locks Are Taking Over Auckland Homes

Keyless tech that is reshaping the home or rental property entry and security.

Benefits: peace of mind, unique PIN access, and remote control.

For Airbnb hosts – no frantic post or pre holiday key handover issues.

For homeowners – way safer than leaving the key outside underneath the pot plant.

Basic models start at $330.00 with top end wi-fi enabled smart locks costing $600.00. Local locksmith – Joe Moore of Essential Locksmiths is able to support with the install.

Smart locks also keep an entry log.

MoneyHub’s round-up has just dropped its late 2024 list of top Auckland locksmiths. They sifted through Google reviews, social-media posts and comments, and business data. Essential locksmiths – made the list. Topping the list are: https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/auckland-reliable-locksmith-services.html

MoneyHub's Top Trusted Auckland Locksmiths

Our research highlighted leading locksmiths who deliver results for their clients.
We suggest contacting Essential Locksmiths Auckland and LockSmart Locksmiths – our top locksmiths with proven reviews and a track record of delivering outstanding results to Auckland residents like you.
Contacting a locksmith by phone is the best way to kick things off – you can explain your situation and hear how you can get the results you want.

What Exactly Is the benefit of a Smart Lock?

It’s a device that replaces your old lock and lets you lock or unlock using an app or keypad.
Many models talk to your smartphone over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
You can set temporary codes, track who comes and goes, and even get alerts when your door opens.

Practical moments when a smart lock becomes a lifesaver

Why Choose a Smart Lock in Auckland?

Ease: No more fumbling for keys. I had a friend, Tim, who once waited 30 minutes for a locksmith at 3 AM. If he’d had a smart lock, he’d have been indoors in 30 seconds.
Flexible Access: Let’s say your daughter left school early. Instead of hiding a key under the pot plant, you send her a one-time PIN. She walks right in.
Rental Income: If you let rooms on Airbnb or rent out a granny flat, you can grant time-limited codes to guests. That means no key handovers.
Package Drop-Offs: Ever order something bulky from Trade Me? FedEx or Courier Post can leave it in your foyer without you being there. Just give them a short-lived PIN. No more parcels stolen from your letter box.

What are the disadvantages of a smart lock?

Power Outages: If your Wi-Fi goes down, some locks switch to manual mode, but not all.

Security Risks: Yes, hackers exist. But statistics show most attacks come from someone you know, e.g. like a former flatmate who still has a spare key. Smart locks often allow you to remove access instantly. That’s harder with a physical key someone kept.

Can you share some real examples Joe?

E.g when you did a small office in town so that the cleaners could get access. Or the bnb or?

Things to consider when wanting to install a Smart Lock.

Warranty: Look for at least a one-year guarantee.
Customer Support: If you must wait three days for help, you’ll regret it. Pick a brand with 24/7 NZ support.
Locksmith Credentials: Ensure your installer is a qualified Master Locksmith (look for MLAA certification).

Something to think about

Would you rather wake up to an alert that your front door is open, or learn the hard way?
If you trust someone with a key, do you really know what happens afterward, when the relationship crumbles? Did they take a copy of the physical key?
How much convenience is worth to you when it comes to your family’s safety?

Smart locks aren’t magic, and they’re not for everyone. But for many Aucklanders, especially renters, Airbnb hosts, or busy families, the upsides are hard to ignore. At the end of the day, you’re in control. You set the codes. You see the history. You decide.

If you want to find out a little more. Give Essential Locksmiths a call.

Kiwi’s Told to Beware of Locksmith Scam: How to Spot a Scammer

Unsuspecting residents are paying thousands of dollars each year from a nationwide scam.

The latest news from the Master Locksmiths Association has uncovered a nationwide scam involving emergency lock repairs.

The scam, targeting individuals and families locked out of their homes, involves an initial cheap call-out fee but then charges customers an exorbitant amount of ‘fake charges’.

The final amount can range anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars, and customers are locked out of their homes if they refuse to pay.

Fake ‘locksmiths’ scam

The Master Locksmiths Association warns New Zealanders to be more vigilant in their search for emergency locksmiths when locked out of their homes. The scam involves a ‘fake locksmith’ who is not only unqualified but will often smash the locks of the surrounding doors, costing customers hundreds to have their locks repaired by a genuine locksmith.

Initially, customers are quoted a reasonable fee, usually between $35 and $120. The unsuspecting and most likely desperate customer might not take the time to shop around and tell the scammers their address.

Upon arrival, these scammers will charge a high amount in the final bill and threaten the customers to pay. This is particularly dangerous for the elderly and females who live alone. The scam also involves a ‘legitimate-looking website’, as these criminals spend thousands on Google Ads and website building.

How to spot a scammer

Here is how you can spot a scam locksmith service and prevent it from happening to you.

Look at the website

No legitimate locksmith offers only emergency locksmith services. So check if the website has other locksmith services. If all you see is a 24/7 emergency service, then the website might be a scam.

Also notice if the website is local. Look for legitimate addresses, clear employee photos, and an ‘About’ section that describes the business owner. Many scam websites are run overseas.

Upon arrival

Assess the person on the other line. They might quote you a small amount of money initially and will also promise to arrive at your home early. Always trust your gut instinct and ask questions.

During the initial call

The fake locksmith will drive an unmarked car and not wear a uniform. They will also perform a shady job, and the final quote will be much higher than originally quoted.

Emergency repairs? Use a qualified locksmith

While it may seem easier to call the first website you see online, it can be costly. Always use a qualified locksmith for emergency repairs who can provide the service you deserve.

Here is a quick summary of our recent Google Reviews.

Summary of first 100 reviews

Excellent, prompt, and professional service provided by the locksmith company.
Reliable, honest, and competitively priced services.
Friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating staff who go above and beyond to address customer needs.
Ability to handle emergency situations quickly and efficiently.
High-quality workmanship and attention to detail.
Consistently positive customer experiences and recommendations for the company's services.

Essential Locksmiths are a Kiwi-owned and operated business with over 25 years of experience. We are a Qualified Locksmith servicing residents in the greater Auckland area. As locals, we understand the importance of securing your home and are available every day of the week for emergency locksmith services.

For an emergency locksmith in Auckland or to learn more about our services, call 0800 539 7247.

Author: Cathy Mellett