What arrangements, if any, exist to maintain after-hours and on-call GP coverage in rural areas if fuel supplies are significantly reduced?

Answer

I am advised that Health New Zealand is actively assessing the implications of each escalation level of the Fuel Response Plan 2026, and work is underway to define how service prioritisation, workforce movement, and operational activity would be managed under different fuel constraint scenarios. I am also advised that after-hours access continues to be supported in rural communities, including through strengthened telehealth services.