Choosing a CPAP Machine
The best CPAP machine isn't necessarily the most expensive one. It should suit your prescribed therapy, comfort preferences, lifestyle and budget.
Most modern machines fall into two main categories:
Auto CPAP / APAP Machines
An Auto CPAP, also known as an APAP, automatically adjusts the air pressure throughout the night within a prescribed range.
As your breathing and pressure requirements change during sleep, the machine responds by increasing or decreasing pressure as needed.
Auto-adjusting machines are a popular option for home CPAP therapy.
Fixed-Pressure CPAP Machines
A fixed-pressure CPAP delivers air at a set pressure throughout the night.
The appropriate pressure should be determined based on your individual therapy requirements and advice from your healthcare provider.
CPAP Machine Brands Available in NZ
AwakeNZ stocks CPAP equipment from established sleep therapy manufacturers, including ResMed and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare.
Different machines offer different combinations of features such as:
- automatic pressure adjustment
- heated humidification
- comfort settings
- therapy data and reporting
- smartphone connectivity
- compact designs
- travel-friendly options
If you're unsure which features actually matter for you, our team can help you compare your options.
How Much Does a CPAP Machine Cost in NZ?
CPAP machine prices in New Zealand vary depending on the model, features and included equipment.
When comparing prices, check exactly what is included. Depending on the product, a package may include the CPAP device, humidifier, tubing, power supply and other accessories, while a CPAP mask may need to be purchased separately.
Price matters, but long-term support, access to replacement parts, and equipment you're comfortable using night after night also matter.
ResMed or Fisher & Paykel CPAP?
Both ResMed and New Zealand-based Fisher & Paykel Healthcare manufacture well-established sleep therapy equipment.
Rather than choosing purely by brand, consider the individual machine's:
Therapy features — including fixed or automatically adjusting pressure.
Comfort features — such as humidification and pressure-relief settings.
Data capabilities — particularly if you or your healthcare provider want to monitor therapy.
Mask compatibility — most standard CPAP machines work with a wide range of CPAP masks.
Lifestyle — frequent travellers, for example, may prioritise size and portability.
AwakeNZ can help you compare machines and understand which features are relevant to you.
New to CPAP?
Starting CPAP therapy can feel complicated. The machine is only one part of successful treatment.
Getting the right mask, fit, pressure settings and ongoing support can make a major difference to how comfortable CPAP therapy feels.
If you've been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea and CPAP has been recommended, we can help you understand the equipment options available.
AwakeNZ also offers CPAP trial and rental options, allowing eligible customers to try CPAP therapy before committing to a purchase.
Do I Need a Sleep Test Before Buying a CPAP Machine?
CPAP is commonly used to treat obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a condition where the airway repeatedly becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep.
Symptoms associated with sleep apnoea can include loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, waking gasping or choking, morning headaches and excessive daytime sleepiness. However, symptoms alone cannot reliably tell you whether you have sleep apnoea.
If you haven't already been assessed, a sleep assessment or sleep test can help determine whether sleep apnoea is present and guide appropriate treatment.
AwakeNZ offers home sleep testing options in New Zealand, with appropriately qualified healthcare professionals reviewing results.
CPAP Masks, Supplies and Accessories
A comfortable mask is an important part of successful CPAP therapy.
AwakeNZ stocks a range of:
CPAP masks and components wear over time, so replacing parts as needed can help maintain comfort, mask seal, and equipment performance.
CPAP Machines with New Zealand Support
Buying a CPAP machine is the start of therapy, not the end.
AwakeNZ is a New Zealand sleep health provider offering CPAP equipment, sleep testing and practical support to help people manage their sleep therapy.
We can help you choose equipment, get started with CPAP, and find replacement masks, parts, and accessories as your needs change.
Shop our CPAP machines, or contact AwakeNZ if you'd like help choosing the right machine.
CPAP Machine FAQs
What does CPAP stand for?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. A CPAP machine provides pressurised air through a mask to help keep the airway open during sleep.
What is the difference between CPAP and APAP?
Traditional fixed CPAP delivers a set pressure. APAP, or Auto CPAP, automatically adjusts pressure within a prescribed range according to changes in breathing during sleep.
Which CPAP machine is best?
No single machine is best for everyone. The right choice depends on your therapy requirements, comfort preferences, desired features, budget and lifestyle.
Can I use any mask with my CPAP machine?
Most modern CPAP machines are compatible with a wide range of standard CPAP masks, although individual equipment requirements can vary. Choosing the right mask style and fit is often as important as choosing the machine itself.
Can I travel with a CPAP machine?
Yes. Many CPAP machines can be taken when travelling, and dedicated travel CPAP machines are also available. Airline requirements and rules around batteries, humidifiers and electrical connections can vary, so check with your airline before travelling.
Can I try CPAP before buying a machine?
AwakeNZ offers CPAP trial and rental options. This can help people starting therapy who want support finding an appropriate setup before purchasing their own equipment.
Do you deliver CPAP machines throughout New Zealand?
Yes. AwakeNZ supplies CPAP equipment to customers throughout New Zealand.
