Quick answer: Most disposable hearing aid batteries sold in NZ are zinc-air "button" batteries (sizes 10, 13, 312, and 675). The right choice comes down to your device's required size, how long you need them to last, and how you store and use them day-to-day. If you're unsure, match the size number (and colour tab) from your current pack and buy from a reliable source.
Running out of power at the wrong moment is frustrating - especially if you rely on hearing aids for conversations, work, and safety. On this page, we'll walk through hearing aid batteries in New Zealand: the common sizes, what "zinc-air" means, how long they typically last, and simple habits that help you get steadier performance.
If you want to jump straight to shopping, start with our hearing aid batteries collection.
Hearing aid battery types in NZ (disposable vs rechargeable)
There are two main "battery setups" you'll come across:
- Disposable zinc-air batteries (the classic button batteries you replace yourself). These are the most common for many behind-the-ear and in-the-ear devices.
- Rechargeable hearing aids (built-in lithium-ion cells charged in a dock). These use a different system - you generally don't buy disposable button batteries for them.
This guide focuses on disposable zinc-air hearing aid batteries, because that's what most people mean when they search for "hearing aid batteries".
Battery sizes explained: 10, 13, 312, and 675
Disposable hearing aid batteries come in standard sizes. The size is usually printed on the pack and often matches a colour tab:
- Size 10 (often yellow tab)
- Size 13 (often orange tab)
- Size 312 (often brown tab)
- Size 675 (often blue tab)
To shop by size, you can use these collections:
- Size 10 hearing aid batteries
- Size 13 hearing aid batteries
- Size 312 hearing aid batteries
- Size 675 hearing aid batteries
How do I know which battery size I need?
We recommend using at least one of these checks:
- Look at your current pack - the size number (10/13/312/675) is the safest match.
- Check your hearing aid manual or the battery door/label if it's printed there.
- Use a size guide - our quick explainer is here: how to choose the right battery size for your hearing aid.
If you're between sizes or unsure, it's worth asking your audiologist - using the wrong size can cause poor contact or damage the battery door.
How long do hearing aid batteries last?
Battery life depends on size, device power needs, and how you use your hearing aids. As a rough guide, many people see:
- Size 10: often a few days to around a week
- Size 312: often about a week (sometimes longer)
- Size 13: commonly around 1-2 weeks
- Size 675: can be around 1-3+ weeks depending on the device
Streaming audio, frequent phone calls, higher amplification needs, and humid environments can all reduce battery life. If your battery life suddenly changes, it can be worth checking the device for moisture, wax blockage, or settings changes.
The "5-minute rule" for zinc-air hearing aid batteries
Zinc-air batteries activate when air enters through tiny holes under the sticker tab. Many people get more consistent performance if they:
- Peel off the tab
- Wait about 5 minutes before inserting the battery
- Insert the battery and close the door
This short wait can help the chemistry stabilise. Not every brand or device behaves exactly the same, but it's a simple habit that often helps reduce "weak battery" moments right after a change.
Tips to make hearing aid batteries last longer
- Store batteries at room temperature in their original pack, away from heat and moisture.
- Don't remove the tab early - once the tab is off, the battery is activating even if it's not in your device.
- Open the battery door at night (or when not in use) to reduce moisture build-up and slow drain.
- Keep devices clean and dry. Many users pair batteries with maintenance essentials from our cleaning & maintenance collection.
- Use a drying option if you live in a humid area or sweat a lot - it can help reduce corrosion and short battery life.
Common problems: why are my hearing aid batteries draining fast?
Fast drain usually has a cause you can troubleshoot. Common culprits include:
- Heavy streaming (calls, TV streaming, music)
- Moisture (humidity, sweat, condensation)
- Wax or debris affecting output efficiency
- Battery contacts that are dirty or bent
- Old stock or damaged packaging
If you suspect your device isn't making good contact or you want to double-check charge, a simple tester can help - see our Rayovac hearing aid battery tester.
Where to buy hearing aid batteries in New Zealand
You can buy hearing aid batteries through audiology clinics, some pharmacies, and online. We recommend choosing a seller that clearly lists:
- The size (10/13/312/675)
- The brand and pack format
- Shipping/returns (useful if you accidentally buy the wrong size)
If you're shopping online, the easiest route is to start at the size you already use and buy a few packs so you're not caught short. You can browse all options in our Shop Hearing Aid Batteries range.
Safety and disposal (important for households)
Hearing aid batteries are small "button" batteries. Please keep them well out of reach of children and pets - ingestion can be extremely dangerous and needs urgent medical help. Store unused batteries in the original packaging and dispose of used batteries according to your local council or recycling programme.
FAQs
What is the lifespan of a hearing aid battery?
It varies by battery size and how your hearing aids are used. Many people get anywhere from a few days (often size 10) to 1-3+ weeks (often size 675), with size 312 and 13 sitting in between.
What is the 5 minute rule for hearing aid batteries?
After you peel off the sticker tab on a zinc-air battery, wait about 5 minutes before inserting it. This allows air to activate the battery chemistry more evenly and can reduce early "weak battery" behaviour.
How do I know if I need size 10, 13, 312, or 675?
Match the size number printed on your current battery pack or confirm in your hearing aid manual. If you're unsure, our guide on choosing the right battery size can help, or you can ask your audiologist.
Should I store hearing aid batteries in the fridge?
We generally recommend storing zinc-air hearing aid batteries at room temperature in a dry place. Refrigeration can introduce condensation when batteries warm up, which isn't ideal for contacts and performance.
Why do my hearing aid batteries not last long?
Short battery life is commonly caused by heavy streaming, humidity or sweat, wax/debris, poor battery contact, or removing tabs too early. Checking storage habits and keeping devices clean and dry can help.
Can I use a different battery size if I'm stuck?
It's best not to. Hearing aids are designed for a specific size, and using the wrong size can lead to poor contact or damage to the battery door. If you're in a pinch, contact your audiology clinic for the safest workaround.
Where can I buy hearing aid batteries near me in NZ?
Many people buy through audiology clinics, some pharmacies, and online stores. If you know your battery size, ordering a few packs online can be the simplest way to stay stocked.
Next steps
- Shop hearing aid batteries
- Shop hearing aid accessories
- How to choose the right battery size
- Size 312 batteries
- Size 13 batteries
- hearing aid batteries near me: what to know (NZ guide)
- batteries for hearing devices: Find Your Size and Make Them Last
- batteries in hearing aids: what to know (NZ guide)
- hearing aid battery tester: what to know (NZ guide)
