Fuel stocks increase
Fuel stocks have increased with the government announcing New Zealand has nearly 60 days’ worth of petrol and more than 50 days of diesel available.
New figures from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) show there were 27.9 days of petrol in the country as of midnight on March 25, which was up from 24.5 days on the Sunday prior.
Diesel increased from 18.1 days to 21.7 over the same period, while jet fuel rose from 20.1 days to 25.3.
Total stocks, which include orders on the water and up to three weeks away from delivery, are 59.3 days of petrol, 54.5 days of diesel and 50.4 days of jet fuel.
The figures for petrol and diesel rose from 48.7 and 46.4 days respectively since MBIE’s previous update, but jet fuel was down from 53.4 days.
MBIE says fuel supply into New Zealand remains stable and onshore and incoming stocks are sufficient.
The coalition unveiled a four-phase national fuel plan last week that allows for restrictions on fuel use to be introduced if stock levels drop too low. New Zealand is at phase one of the plan.
Keeping fuel safe
New Zealand Police have announced they are monitoring any trends around fuel theft and associated offences after concerns from people the global situation may lead to a rise in such crimes.
Tusha Penny, assistant commissioner road policing and district support, says: “At this stage, it is too early to determine any notable change in offending.
“Police will remain visible in our communities and will respond to any incidents as they arise.”
Advice for those worried about becoming victims of fuel theft includes parking vehicles in a garage, but if that’s not possible then park with the fuel cap close to a wall or another vehicle to restrict access.
Other tips are to have security or sensor lighting on around your car, or if parking on the road, keep vehicles in well-lit locations.
Police also recommend making sure fuel is kept out of sight and ensuring fuel tanks or containers are secured and locked to restrict theft and tampering.
