Several large shipments of fuel on their way, raising total petrol stocks to 59 days of supply

Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Petrol stocks are growing thanks to several large shipments that are on their way.

New Zealand’s petrol reserves have surged following the departure of several large shipments now on their way to the country.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) confirmed on Wednesday petrol stocks had increased by eight days in the latest reporting period, reaching a 59-day supply. The spike was attributed to the bulk shipments recently embarked for New Zealand.

The supply chain was operating “smoothly”, the ministry said in a statement, and fuel was continuing to flow into the country as expected.

Importers had confirmed orders through to late June, with further planned orders stretching into early August.

The latest data, recorded as at 11.59pm on May 10, showed national diesel stocks at 45.2 days – an increase of nearly one day – while jet fuel stocks were at 50.2 days.

While petrol and diesel reserves grew, jet fuel stocks had decreased by nearly four days. The ministry said this followed recent high volumes and was a result of the fuel being drawn down.

MBIE stated the movements reflected 'usual shipping patterns and routine variations'. It said the current stock levels were consistent with what would be expected even without the conflict in the Middle East.