New Zealand’s national fuel stocks are currently stable and sufficient, according to ministry officials, despite recent declines that met the technical threshold for a response phase assessment.
Current Fuel Stock Levels
As of 11:59pm on April 19, the country held the equivalent of 51.2 days of petrol, 41.6 days of diesel, and 47.4 days of jet fuel.
These figures represent a slight decrease compared to the update on April 20. Petrol stocks fell by 2.8 days, diesel by 3.2 days, and jet fuel by four days.
MBIE clarified that these totals include fuel held within New Zealand, stocks within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)—including ships at berth or unloading—and fuel on ships outside the EEZ expected to arrive within three weeks.
MBIE and Government Response
Even as the decline triggered a technical threshold for assessment, MBIE advised ministers that no formal assessment was required. Officials stated the movements reflect normal supply fluctuations and do not pose an immediate risk.
MBIE noted that diesel held within New Zealand and its waters is close to the highest level recorded since the Middle East conflict began. A diesel tanker is also currently loading in Singapore and is expected to depart for New Zealand shortly.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis confirmed that order books through the end of May show no difficulty in securing fuel, and suppliers have indicated no challenges for June orders.
International Supply Dynamics
Intelligence indicates that refineries in Singapore and South Korea, the primary sources for New Zealand’s fuel, have secured alternative crude oil supplies.
These refineries have moved away from Middle East crude, increasingly sourcing from Brazil, the United States, and West Africa. Crude volumes entering these refineries remain consistent with average levels from the past year.
The National Fuel Plan
The government is currently operating under phase one of the national fuel plan, which prioritizes preparation and transparency.
Decisions regarding phase changes are made by the Fuel Security Ministerial Oversight Group, which includes Shane Jones and Nicola Willis. This group monitors criteria such as regional distribution disruptions, advice from fuel companies, and policy shifts from the International Energy Agency or Australia.
If the government were to move to phase two, the public could still access fuel as usual, but may be advised to voluntarily reduce consumption through carpooling or using public transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current fuel stock levels in New Zealand?
As of April 19, New Zealand has 51.2 days of petrol, 41.6 days of diesel, and 47.4 days of jet fuel available.
What happens if the government moves to phase two of the national fuel plan?
Under phase two, the public could still access fuel, but would be advised to strongly consider voluntarily reducing consumption via alternatives like public transport and carpooling. There would also be closer coordination between industry and government to manage demand and supply.
Where is New Zealand’s refined fuel sourced from?
New Zealand sources most of its fuel from refineries in Singapore and South Korea.
Do you think voluntary consumption reductions, such as carpooling, would be effective if the national fuel plan moved to phase two?
