Government loans and private investment to add 2500 EV chargers, doubling NZ network
Monday, 23 March 2026
More than 2500 new public electric vehicle chargers are set to be rolled out across New Zealand, backed by Government loans and private investment.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said $52.7 million in zero-interest loans would support the rollout, alongside $60m in co-investment from ChargeNet and Meridian Energy.
“Many New Zealanders have thought about getting an EV, even before the fuel challenges we’re currently facing. But research shows that the lack of public chargers is holding many back from making the switch to an EV.”
The move was aimed at breaking a stalemate between supply and demand, he said.
“The private sector is reluctant to invest in charging infrastructure until there’s sufficient demand, but demand won’t grow until the lack of public chargers stops putting buyers off.”
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The rollout includes 1374 DC fast chargers, which can charge vehicles in 20 to 60 minutes, and 1200 slower AC chargers suited to longer stays in places such as shopping centres and workplaces.
About half of the new chargers will be installed in major centres including Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington, with the remainder spread across regional areas.
New Zealand currently has just over 1800 public charge points. With another 161 already in progress and the newly announced investment, the national total is expected to reach about 4550.
The Government is aiming for 10,000 public charge points by 2030, roughly one for every 40 electric vehicles.
Energy and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts said rising fuel costs and global uncertainty were adding to interest in electric vehicles.
“Kiwis are already making the shift to electric vehicles as a cost-of-living choice, and we have seen uptake grow.”
He said a stronger charging network would help households save money while reducing emissions.
“EVs produce at least 60% fewer lifecycle emissions than petrol vehicles.”