FUEL SUPPLY IN NEW ZEALAND – WHAT WE’RE DOING AND WHY

FUEL SUPPLY IN NEW ZEALAND – WHAT
WE’RE DOING AND WHY
In recent weeks, there has been increasing discussion around fuel supply in New Zealand — particularly diesel availability, shipping
timelines, and the possibility of demand reduction measures.
At the same time, many will be aware that New Zealand no longer refines its own fuel and is now fully reliant on imported refined
products.
This raises a simple but important question:
Are current fuel concerns based on measurable supply constraints, or are they influenced by structural, policy, or market conditions?
What We Have Done
InLandsAirWater Counsel has initiated a structured, evidence-based inquiry into New Zealand’s fuel system.
We have issued nine coordinated information requests across key agencies and infrastructure operators, covering:
– National fuel supply levels and consumption
– Tanker movements and shipping activity
– Access to fuel infrastructure
– Market competition and control
– Financial implications of fuel pricing
– Policy triggers for demand reduction measures
– National security considerations
– Environmental and coastal impacts
– Cabinet-level decision-making
Each request is targeted, specific, and designed to obtain verifiable data.
Why This Matters
Fuel is not just a commodity — it underpins:
– Food production
– Transport and logistics
– Emergency services
– Everyday cost of living
Any constraint, whether real or perceived, has wide-reaching impacts across the country.
It is therefore essential that:
– decisions are transparent
– risks are clearly defined
– and the public understands the basis for any proposed measures
Our Approach
This is not an adversarial process.
We are not starting from a fixed conclusion.
Instead, we are:
– gathering information
– comparing responses across agencies
– identifying whether the data aligns with public messaging
What We Are Looking For
We will be assessing whether:
– Fuel supply levels are declining or stable
– Shipping and tanker flows are disrupted or normal
– Infrastructure access is open or restricted
– Market conditions are competitive or concentrated
– Policy decisions are based on defined thresholds or discretion
What Happens Next
As responses are received, they will be reviewed and analysed.
Where appropriate, further questions or clarifications will be sought.
A consolidated view will be developed to determine whether current conditions reflect:
– genuine supply constraints
or
– structural and policy-driven outcomes
Our Intention
Our intention is simple:
To ensure clarity, transparency, and accountability in an area that affects every household and business in New Zealand.
We will provide updates as information becomes available.
InLandsAirWater Counsel
Fuel Inquiry Project – 2026