What assurance, if any, can the Government give that New Zealand will not face fuel shortages within weeks of a major disruption?

Answer

New Zealand's fuel supply remains stable. Fuel companies are not reporting widespread supply chain issues at this time. Fuel importers are required to meet Minimum Stockholding Obligations, which came into force from 1 January 2025 and require 28 days' cover for petrol, 24 days' cover for jet fuel, and 21 days' cover for diesel to be held onshore or on ships within our Exclusive Economic Zone. These obligations are designed to provide a buffer against disruptions. The 2025 Fuel Security Study considered a range of disruption scenarios, including a scenario where up to 50 per cent of normal fuel supply is disrupted and replacement supply must be sourced from alternative locations. The analysis indicated that existing fuel stocks and stockholding obligations would play a key role in maintaining supply, particularly for petrol, while diesel and jet fuel could face some pressure under such conditions. Given the critical role of diesel, the Government has taken steps to increase diesel storage capacity to further strengthen resilience.