By Colin Ambler/cvnznews.com
New Zealand’s fuel supplies remain stable despite a three‑day drop in petrol, diesel, and jet fuel stocks, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says, confirming the country will stay in Phase 1 of the National Fuel Plan.
The latest update triggered one of the criteria for reviewing the plan, after fuel stocks fell more than three days between reports. But Luxon said ministers agreed with officials that the situation did not warrant moving to Phase 2, which would involve precautionary conservation measures and closer coordination with fuel companies.
“Our fuel importers continue to report no material issues with future shipments,” Luxon said. “We are staying at Phase 1. But the ceasefire is fragile, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed — so the risk to New Zealand’s fuel security is still elevated.”
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) said the drop was partly due to a delayed shipment caused by congestion at Singapore ports. Thirteen fuel ships are currently in New Zealand or within three weeks of arrival, compared with 14 earlier in the week.
Between Monday and Wednesday, petrol stocks fell from 59.7 days to 56.3 days — a 3.4‑day drop. Diesel fell 3.7 days, from 49.1 to 45.4 days. Jet fuel also dropped 3.7 days, from 50.7 to 47 days.
Despite the declines, MBIE described the situation as “stable” and advised ministers that a formal assessment was not required. The ministry said the changes did not raise immediate concerns about supply.
As of Sunday night, New Zealand had 25.3 days of petrol in‑country, with another 10.6 days at port or within two days of arrival, and a further 20.4 days on ships due within three weeks. Diesel stocks included 20.8 days in‑country, 10.8 days at or near port, and 13.8 days on the way. Jet fuel stocks included 21.3 days in‑country, 10 days at or near port, and 15.7 days on ships en route.
The Fuel Security Ministerial Oversight Group will continue monitoring stock levels closely, with further updates expected as global shipping disruptions and Middle East tensions continue to affect supply routes.
