New Zealand has just under 47 days’ worth of fuel available as global supply concerns intensify following conflict in the Middle East and disruption through the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest figures, released by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and accurate to March 18, show the country has a combined 46.9 days of fuel stock either in the country or on the way.
This includes 49.9 days of petrol, 45.5 days of diesel and 44.7 days of jet fuel.
The Government has moved to providing updates twice a week as the situation overseas continues to evolve.
Eight fuel shipments are expected to arrive by April 1, with seven due between March 19 and 25. Those shipments are set to deliver the equivalent of 20 days of petrol, 16 days of diesel and 12 days of jet fuel.
A further shipment scheduled between March 26 and April 1 will carry no petrol, but includes four days of diesel and 10 days of jet fuel.
MBIE said the figures do not include shipments more than two weeks away, including cargoes already loaded or currently being prepared.
Slight dip but supply remains “healthy”
The latest update shows a small drop compared to figures released just days earlier.
As of March 15, New Zealand had 51.3 days of petrol, 47.1 days of diesel and 49 days of jet fuel, with more shipments expected within that earlier timeframe.
Despite the decrease, officials say the changes reflect normal usage and shipping patterns rather than any immediate supply risk.
“Fuel supply into New Zealand remains stable,” MBIE said.
“There is currently no need for New Zealanders to change how they buy fuel.”
Finance Minister Nicola Willis echoed that message, saying fluctuations in stock levels are expected but overall supply remains strong.
Government monitoring global risks
The updates come as the Government closely monitors the impact of the Middle East conflict on global oil supply chains, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping route for fuel.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is expected to provide a further update alongside Willis and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones following a Cabinet briefing.
Willis said the Government’s response is focused on three key areas: maintaining supply chains, managing potential freight disruptions, and preparing an economic response if needed.
The global uncertainty has already begun to flow through to consumers, with some regions reporting premium fuel prices approaching $4 per litre.
While supply remains steady for now, the situation highlights New Zealand’s reliance on imported fuel and exposure to international market volatility.
Officials say they will continue closely tracking shipments and stock levels as the international situation develops.
