Digital Locks: Smart, Keypad and Keyless Door Locks in NZ

Digital locks let you open your door with a PIN, a fingerprint, a phone or a key card instead of a traditional metal key. If you are weighing up keyless entry for your home, rental or business in New Zealand, this guide walks you through the main types, the features that matter, and how to choose a lock that suits your door and your budget.

What are digital locks?

A digital lock, sometimes called an electronic or keyless lock, replaces or supplements a standard key-operated lock with an electronic mechanism. Instead of turning a key, you enter a code, scan a fingerprint, tap a card or unlock from an app, and a small motor engages or releases the bolt.

Most digital locks still include a physical key override or another backup method, so you are not locked out if the battery runs flat. They range from simple standalone keypad locks through to fully connected smart locks that tie into your wider smart home. The right choice depends on how you want to unlock the door, whether you need remote access, and the door you are fitting it to.

Types of digital locks

The type of digital lock you choose is the biggest single decision, because it sets how you and others will get through the door every day. Here are the main categories available in New Zealand.

Keypad / PIN code locks

Keypad locks open with a numeric PIN entered on a physical or touch keypad. They are among the simplest and most affordable digital locks, with no phone or app required. Many let you set multiple codes, so you can give family members or a cleaner their own PIN.

Best for: households that want reliable keyless entry without connectivity. Browse keypad door locks to compare current options.

Fingerprint / biometric locks

Biometric locks use a fingerprint scanner to identify authorised users, so there is no code to remember or share. They are quick to unlock and hard to copy, and most also offer a PIN or key backup. Fingerprint reading can be affected by wet or dirty hands, so a backup method matters.

Best for: fast, personal access for a fixed set of users. See our fingerprint locks range.

Smart locks (app, WiFi, Bluetooth)

Smart locks connect to your phone by Bluetooth or WiFi and are controlled through an app. You can unlock remotely, check whether the door is locked, receive entry notifications and issue temporary codes to guests. Some connect directly to WiFi, while others need a separate hub or bridge for remote features.

Best for: people who want remote control and guest access. Explore smart locks for connected options.

Key card and fob locks

Card and fob locks use RFID cards or key fobs, the same approach used in many hotels and offices. They are convenient for handing access to staff or tenants and easy to deactivate if a card is lost. They suit shared or commercial doors where you want to manage a group of users.

Smart deadbolts and digital deadbolts

Digital deadbolts combine the strong holding power of a deadbolt with electronic unlocking. They are a common upgrade for front and back doors because they add security at the point that matters most. Smart deadbolt versions add app control and remote access on top.

Best for: securing exterior entry doors. Compare digital deadbolts for high-security entryways.

Digital padlocks

Digital padlocks bring keyless entry to gates, sheds, lockers, toolboxes and storage. They typically open with a PIN or fingerprint and often carry a weather rating for outdoor use. They are a low-commitment way to try keyless access without fitting anything to a door.

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Key features to compare

Once you have a lock type in mind, these are the specifications worth comparing side by side before you buy.

Unlock methods

Check exactly how a lock can be opened: PIN, fingerprint, RFID card or fob, app, and physical key override. Locks that offer more than one method are more flexible and give you a fallback if one fails. A physical key or emergency backup is worth prioritising.

Connectivity

Connectivity ranges from fully standalone locks with no network, through Bluetooth for phone-range control, to WiFi and hub-based systems such as Z-Wave or Zigbee for remote access and smart home integration. Decide whether you actually need remote control, as standalone locks are simpler and have fewer points of failure.

Power and battery life

Most digital locks run on replaceable batteries. Look for stated battery life, low-battery alerts, and an emergency power option, such as a terminal you can touch with a 9-volt battery, so a flat lock does not leave you stranded. Longer battery life means less maintenance over the year.

Weather and outdoor rating

For an exterior door, gate or anything exposed, check the lock’s weatherproofing or IP rating. New Zealand conditions vary from coastal salt air to heavy rain, so a lock rated for outdoor use will last longer and perform more reliably than an indoor-only unit.

How to choose the right digital lock

The best digital lock is the one that matches your door, your users and how you want to manage access. Work through a few questions before deciding.

Which door? A front door usually calls for a secure smart deadbolt, while an internal, garage or shed door has lighter requirements.
Who needs access? Just a household, or guests, tenants and staff who need their own codes or cards?
Do you need remote control? If you want to unlock from anywhere or manage a rental remotely, choose a WiFi or hub-connected smart lock. If not, a standalone keypad or fingerprint lock is simpler.
What is your budget? Entry-level keypad locks cost far less than premium connected smart deadbolts, so set a range before shopping.

If you want to line up several models feature by feature, our compare digital locks buying guide is a good starting point.

The table below gives a quick sense of how the main types stack up.

Lock type	How it unlocks	Remote access	Best for
Keypad / PIN	Code	Usually no	Simple keyless entry
Fingerprint	Fingerprint, PIN	Some models	Fast personal access
Smart lock	App, code, more	Yes	Remote and guest access
Card / fob	RFID card or fob	Varies	Shared or commercial doors
Smart deadbolt	App, code, key	Yes	Secure exterior doors
Digital padlock	Code or fingerprint	Usually no	Gates, sheds, lockers

Installation and compatibility

Many digital locks are designed as a straightforward retrofit, replacing an existing lock or deadbolt using the same door prep. Others may require new holes or a specific door thickness, so always check the compatibility specs against your door before buying.

Confident DIYers can often fit a keypad or smart lock with a screwdriver in under an hour, following the supplied template. If your door is non-standard, you are unsure about alignment, or you want the job guaranteed, a locksmith is a sound investment. New Zealand doors and hardware are typically standard, but timber, aluminium and specialty doors can differ, so measure your door thickness and backset first.

For a step-by-step walkthrough, see how to install a digital lock.

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Security and safety

A lock is only worth having if it keeps your home secure, so this is the area to scrutinise most. Look for encrypted communication on connected locks, tamper resistance, and an auto-lock feature so the door secures itself if someone forgets.

Consider what happens in an emergency: the lock should allow quick exit from the inside and should not trap anyone. Follow fire and egress good practice, and for security-sensitive claims it is worth checking guidance from credible bodies such as the

Confirm the current details on those organisations’ own websites, and check each manufacturer’s specifications for any security ratings or certifications relevant to your chosen lock.

Smart home integration

If you already run smart devices, a connected lock can slot into the same system. Depending on the model, digital locks work over WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave or Zigbee, and many integrate with app ecosystems and voice assistants so you can check or control the door hands-free.

Some smart locks connect directly to your home WiFi, while others rely on a hub or bridge for remote features and automations, such as locking automatically at night or when you leave. Confirm which hub, if any, a lock needs before you buy, so it fits the system you already use.

Price guide and value

Digital lock prices in New Zealand vary widely by type and features. As a general guide, basic keypad and padlock models sit at the lower end, fingerprint and mid-range smart locks in the middle, and fully connected smart deadbolts with WiFi and app control at the upper end. Prices change with brand, retailer and promotions, so check current listings before you decide.

When weighing value, look past the sticker price to battery life, build quality, warranty and the backup options included. A slightly dearer lock that lasts longer and stays reliable often costs less over its lifetime. For live pricing, see digital lock prices NZ.

Top digital lock brands available in NZ

Several established brands offer digital locks in New Zealand, spanning simple keypad units through to premium connected smart locks. Rather than assume a particular model’s specifications, compare current products on each brand’s own pages, where you can confirm connectivity, security features, warranty and NZ availability.

Browse individual Brand digital locks pages to see the full range, specifications and pricing for each maker, and to confirm what is in stock for delivery in New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is a digital lock and how does it work?

A digital lock uses an electronic mechanism instead of a traditional key. You unlock it with a PIN, fingerprint, card, fob or app, and a small motor moves the bolt. Most also keep a physical key or backup method in case the battery runs out.

Q: What are the different types of digital locks?

The main types are keypad or PIN locks, fingerprint or biometric locks, smart locks controlled by app, card and fob locks, smart or digital deadbolts, and digital padlocks. Each suits a different mix of doors, users and access needs.

Q: Are digital locks safe and secure?

Quality digital locks can be very secure, with features such as encrypted connections, tamper resistance and auto-lock. As with any lock, security depends on choosing a reputable product, installing it correctly, and keeping codes private. Check manufacturer specifications for any security ratings.

Q: What happens to a digital lock if the power or battery dies?

Most digital locks warn you well before the battery is flat with low-battery alerts. Many also include a physical key override or an emergency power option, such as a terminal you can touch with a 9-volt battery, so you can still get in. Always confirm the backup method before buying.

Q: Can I install a digital lock myself, or do I need a locksmith?

Many keypad and smart locks are designed as a DIY retrofit and can be fitted with basic tools in under an hour. If your door is non-standard, you are unsure about alignment, or you want the work guaranteed, a locksmith is a good idea.

Q: Do digital locks work on standard NZ doors?

Most digital locks are built to fit standard door thicknesses and backsets, which cover the majority of New Zealand doors. Timber, aluminium and specialty doors can differ, so measure your door and check the lock’s compatibility specs before you order.

Q: What is the difference between a smart lock and a keypad lock?

A keypad lock opens with a code and usually works on its own with no network. A smart lock adds connectivity by Bluetooth or WiFi, so you can control it from an app, unlock remotely and issue guest codes. Smart locks offer more features but are more complex and cost more.

Q: Do I need WiFi for a digital lock to work?

No. Standalone keypad, fingerprint and card locks work without any network. WiFi is only needed if you want remote access and notifications from anywhere. Some smart locks use Bluetooth or a separate hub instead of connecting directly to WiFi.

Q: Can I give guests or tenants a temporary code?

Yes, many keypad and smart locks let you create multiple or temporary codes for guests, cleaners or tenants, and remove them later. Smart locks with app control make it easy to set time-limited codes, which is handy for rentals and short stays.

Q: How much does a digital lock cost in NZ?

Prices vary widely by type and features, from affordable keypad and padlock models to premium connected smart deadbolts. Because pricing changes with brand, retailer and promotions, check current product listings for accurate figures.

Q: Which digital lock brands are best for New Zealand homes?

Several established brands sell digital locks in New Zealand, covering simple keypad units through to premium smart locks. The best choice depends on your door, budget and access needs, so compare current models on each brand’s own pages to confirm features and NZ availability.

Q: Are digital locks waterproof / suitable for exterior doors?

Many digital locks are rated for outdoor use, but not all, so check the weatherproofing or IP rating before fitting one to an exterior door or gate. A lock rated for the outdoors will handle New Zealand’s rain and coastal conditions more reliably.

Q: Can digital locks be hacked?

Any connected device carries some risk, but reputable smart locks use encryption and security measures to reduce it. You can lower risk further by keeping firmware updated, using strong unique codes, and choosing well-reviewed brands. Standalone locks with no network have no remote attack surface at all.

Q: Do digital locks still have a physical key backup?

Many do, though not all. A physical key override, or an alternative backup such as a mechanical key slot or emergency power terminal, is a useful safeguard against flat batteries or faults. Check the backup options listed before you buy.