07 April 2026

New Zealand Fuel Update | April 2026

Mainfreight continues to take guidance and insight from a range of Government and private sector organisations. Fuel stock in, or on route to New Zealand remains within expectations.
 
We will continue to stay informed and remain committed to keeping customers updated on any industry related changes or challenges.
 
Fuel Stocks Update
As at 11:59PM on Wednesday 1 April (as days cover).

Historic Diesel Price
Given the nature of the increases in pump price to date, we thought important to provide insight to the history of the average price of diesel across New Zealand.

We have used PriceWatch (www.pricewatch.co.nz) data to provide this view. As you will see, current price of diesel across the country is at a multi-year high and now more than 0.50c/litre higher than the peak of 2022 during the Ukraine War.

Practical ways to reduce the impact on freight costs

Thank you to those customers who reached out on the following information from our prior update. The below is a range of solutions, that if implemented could provide overall benefit. Where you have questions, please reach out to your local Mainfreight contacts to discuss.
 
Review order and pallet minimums
Setting or adjusting minimum order requirements for customers can improve freight efficiency and reduce costly small shipments, without affecting service levels.
 
Lead Time Management
Allowing more lead time enables use of alternative transport options. Mainfreight offers consolidated rail, coastal, air and sea solutions that can reduce cost per shipment if not already in use.
 
Consolidation
Reduce and limit shipment and consignment frequency through order consolidation. This may also increase consignment size which will also provide overall cost benefit.
 
Alternative discharge ports for internationally sourced products
Where feasible, position internationally sourced products near your customer base. Leveraging our domestic infrastructure, we facilitate the delivery of imported goods through our cross docks directly to multiple end destinations. This approach enhances cost efficiency and can improve delivery times to final customers.
 
Connect
Periods of volatility highlight the importance of collaboration. Reviewing shipment profiles, order structures, and delivery requirements with us can uncover opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce overall cost exposure.