Fuel security information and planning

Last updated 15 April, 2026

Council is closely monitoring New Zealand’s fuel situation and the potential impacts on Carterton and our district.
The national fuel supply remains stable, and New Zealand is currently at Phase 1 (watchful) of the National Fuel Plan.
We are following Government guidance and working with regional and national partners to ensure we are prepared should the situation change.

Current national situation
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is the lead agency for fuel security under the National Fuel Plan.
New Zealand’s fuel supply is currently stable, with imports continuing and no reported national supply disruptions. Some short‑term local outages may occur due to delivery timing or increased demand, but these are being actively managed at a national level.

What Council is doing to plan and prepare
Carterton District Council is taking a precautionary approach to ensure essential services continue to operate and our community is supported.

In line with Phase 1 of the National Fuel Plan, Council is implementing the following mitigations:

  • Conserving fuel wherever possible by reviewing activities and reducing unnecessary travel.
  • Only using Council vehicles for essential work and planning routes efficiently.
  • Using online meetings or public transport where practical for meetings outside the district.
  • Regularly topping up fuel supplies, including bowsers, generators and Council vehicles.
  • Considering what work can be done remotely and coordinating travel by location.
  • Using Council electric bikes and scooters for meetings within Carterton township where appropriate.
  • Reviewing business continuity plans so Council is prepared if fuel restrictions increase.

Maintaining critical services, including water, wastewater and emergency field operations, remains Council’s priority. We are monitoring prices and petrol/diesel use, and preparing to adjust how we operate as a result of any changes to phases in New Zealand’s Fuel Response Plan.

Stay up-to-date:
Residents can stay informed through official sources and Council updates: