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Buying a service robot in New Zealand

Service robots now carry plates in restaurants, move meals and linen in aged care, and clean large commercial floors. This guide covers what they do, whether your site is ready, the costs to plan for, and the questions worth asking any supplier.

What service robots do

Most service robots fall into four groups. Many businesses start with one task that's repetitive and time-consuming, then add more once staff are comfortable.

Delivery

Carry food, drinks and dirty dishes between kitchen and tables on stacked trays, so staff spend more time with customers.

Cleaning

Vacuum, sweep or scrub large floor areas on a schedule, often overnight or between shifts.

Hotel and facility

Deliver room orders and supplies, and in many models call lifts and pass through doors on their own.

Reception and guidance

Greet visitors, show information on a screen and guide people to a room or table.

Is your site ready?

A robot is only as good as the space it works in. Walk your site with these in mind before talking prices.

  • Floors and thresholdsFlat floors suit most robots. Note steps, steep ramps, raised door sills and thick rugs.
  • Space to moveMeasure the narrowest aisles and gaps between tables at your busiest layout, not when the room is empty.
  • Glass, mirrors and lightingLarge glass walls, mirrors and very dark or very bright areas can confuse some sensors.
  • Wi-FiCheck coverage in every area the robot will travel, including kitchens and back corridors.
  • Lifts and doorsIf the robot needs to change floors or pass through doors, ask how it integrates with your lift and door systems.
  • ChargingPick a charging spot with a power point that won't block staff or guests.

Costs to plan for

The robot is only part of the cost. Ask for the whole picture in writing.

Beyond the purchase or lease price
  • Installation and mapping your site
  • Staff training
  • Servicing, parts and batteries over the robot's life
  • Any software or platform subscription
  • Insurance

Questions to ask any supplier

  1. Who provides support in New Zealand, and how fast can a technician get to us?
  2. How long do parts take to arrive, and are common parts held locally?
  3. What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
  4. Who updates the map when we change our layout?
  5. Does the robot record video or images, and where is that data stored? Your obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 still apply.
  6. Can we trial it at our site before committing?
  7. Can we speak to a business like ours that already uses one?

Health and safety

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, a robot is part of your workplace like any other equipment. Include it in your risk assessment, train staff on how it moves and how to stop it, and check the emergency stop is easy to reach. WorkSafe New Zealand publishes general guidance on managing risks from plant and machinery.