Home security has become more critical than ever before in New Zealand. With crime on the rise, Kiwis are looking for ways to protect their families and properties. Installing security cameras around your home is a great way to do this. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right security camera for your needs? This article will discuss the top 10 security cameras for home use in New Zealand. We’ll cover both wired and wireless options across a range of budgets. Let’s dive in!
Overview Of Home Security Cameras
Security cameras are video surveillance devices used to monitor and record activity on your property. They act as an extra set of eyes, providing visual evidence if an incident occurs. Security cameras can be wired (requiring cabling from the camera to a recorder) or wireless (operating over WiFi). Key features to consider are video resolution, field of view, night vision capability, storage options, and intelligent home integration. Prices range from affordable DIY systems to advanced setups requiring professional installation.
Factors To Consider When Buying Security Cameras
When selecting a home security camera in New Zealand, keep the following factors in mind:
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Will the camera be used inside your home or monitoring outdoor areas like driveways and backyards? Outdoor cameras need to withstand the elements.
Wired vs. Wireless
Wired systems provide more reliable connectivity but require installing cables. Wireless cams are easier to install but may have connectivity issues.
Video Resolution
Higher resolution (1080p or 4K) provides more detail. Aim for at least 720p.
Field of View
The camera’s field of view determines how much it can see. Wide angles like 140° are ideal.
Night Vision
Look for IR night vision to see footage in low light. 25-30 meters is ideal.
Storage
Onboard storage or cloud plans? Locally stored video doesn’t rely on the internet.
Smart Features
Motion detection, mobile alerts, and integration with smart speakers are helpful.
The Top 10 Home Security Cameras For New Zealand
Based on the criteria above, these are the top-rated home security cameras available in the NZ market:
1. Arlo Pro 4
The Arlo Pro 4 tops our list, providing exceptional 2K HDR video, 160° field of view, excellent app with AI detection, and wire-free flexibility. The multi-camera kits make Arlo a scalable solution for homes big and small.
2. EufyCam 2C
For bargain hunters, the EufyCam 2C packs a surprising amount of features like 2K resolution, night vision, and a 365-day battery into an affordable wireless camera. It even works with Apple HomeKit.
3. Nest Cam Outdoor
Google’s Nest Cam Outdoor shoots in crisp 1080p and has customized motion alerts. Nest Aware subscription provides intelligent searchable video history. It’s also weatherproof and integrates with other Nest devices.
4. Ring Spotlight Cam
Ring’s wireless Spotlight Cam shines bright with HD video and two-way talk. It doubles as a motion-activated spotlight and seamlessly works with Alexa. Ring Protect plans to provide access to video for up to 60 days.
5. Swann 8 Channel DVR System
For wired systems, the Swann 8-Channel DVR kit is a top choice. It comes with four 1080p cameras and can support up to 8 cameras. The 1TB DVR stores footage locally for secure playback.
6. Hive View
Hive’s wireless View cam captures 1080p video day and night. With the Hive Link hub, the footage is stored locally on MicroSD and accessible in the app for 30 days of playback. It works with Alexa too.
7. TP-Link Tapo C200
One of the most affordable 1080p cams, the TP-Link Tapo C200 has features including motion zones, sound detection, and local storage and works great outdoors.
8. Ezviz C6CN
Weatherproof and wireless with custom activity zones, the Ezviz C6CN even provides free cloud storage for your clips, making it a flexible and budget-friendly choice.
9. Canary Flex
Flex is a versatile 1080p camera you can mount or sit anywhere. It has a wide viewing angle, has AI person detection, 30 days of storage, and works with Alexa.
10. Kami Wire-Free Camera
Kami’s 100% wire-free camera delivers hardcore security. It’s a solid choice with 1080p live streaming, 128GB local storage, 25m night vision, and a theft deterrent alarm.
So those are our picks for the top home security cameras in the New Zealand market this year. From industry leaders like Arlo and Nest to value champions like Swann and Ezviz, there are great options for every home and budget. Just assess your needs and environment before choosing the perfect security camera system for your property. And stay safe out there, fellow Kiwis!
5 Key Benefits Of Installing Security Cameras At Home
Beyond just deterring crime, home security cameras provide other advantages that make them worth investing in:
- You can monitor your home anytime from your smartphone for added peace of mind.
- Video footage acts as evidence if a crime does occur on your property.
- Many cameras integrate with intelligent speakers to let you pull up live feeds just by asking.
- Features like motion detection alerts and night vision give you 24/7 surveillance.
- Security cameras can improve insurance rates and qualify you for discounts.
Conclusion
Thanks to modern security cameras, protecting your home and loved ones has never been easier. When shopping for a security camera system, consider critical factors like video quality, field of view, night vision capabilities, storage options, and intelligent features. Outstanding wired and wireless security cameras are available to suit all budgets and needs. Install one of the top-rated options featured here for robust home security and monitoring in New Zealand. Which camera is your favorite? Let us know!
FAQs About Security Cameras For Home Use
Q: Do security cameras deter burglars?
Yes, visible security cameras have been shown to deter criminals from targeting homes, as they don’t want to be identified and caught. Outdoor cameras especially make burglars think twice.
Q: Where should I install security cameras at home?
Ideal placements are watching over entryways, alleyways, driveways, and backyards. Also, consider cameras in living rooms, kitchens, and indoor hallways.
Q: How many security cameras do I need?
This depends on your home’s size and layout. Most experts recommended 4-6 cameras to adequately monitor all entry points and high-value areas.
Q: How much do home security cameras cost?
Primary indoor cameras start around $100-$200. More advanced outdoor systems with multiple cameras, long-range night vision, and ample storage capacities can cost $500-$1000.
Q: Do security cameras work without WiFi?
Yes, wired cameras don’t need WiFi as they connect directly to a recording device like a DVR. Some wireless cameras have onboard storage that allows recording without WiFi also.
