As Auckland prepares for the introduction of an 11.5c fuel tax next week, a new study shows that Kiwis already have an eye on rising prices with some are prepared to drive up to 10km for cheaper fuel.
According to Canstar Blue research, the amount of people who use supermarket discount vouchers or loyalty cards to lower the price at the pump is also rising.
The latest survey involving 2,305 Kiwis found that 50 per cent of motorists nationally were prepared to travel up to 5km to source cheaper fuel and 16 per cent would travel up to 10km. In Auckland, these figures were 53 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.
Canstar Blue spokesperson Emma Quantrill said that in May, New Zealanders spend over $648m on fuel and that figure is expected to rise.
“With all eyes on Auckland in the coming weeks, it will be interesting to see the impact fuel tax has on people’s habits at the pump," said Quantrill
“Fuel pricing strategies have already been under the spotlight in recent months so we don’t think people are under any illusions that the repercussion of price increases could be felt on a national scale."
"In Auckland alone, we found a 23-cent difference in the price of 91 so it really does cost you if you don’t do your research and shop around. And, while most of us understand that shipping costs to our more remote areas can inflate the price, it’s much more difficult to argue at a local level.”
The study found that half of Kiwis are spending between $100-$249 per month on fuel (50 per cent), with 34 per cent speding less than $100 a month and 14 per cent between $250-$500.
Auckland drivers are likely to pay about 15c a litre more at the petrol pump in the coming weeks with a double whammy from Auckland Council and the Government.
The council's regional fuel tax of 11.5 cents a litre is due to come into effect on July 1. Weeks later, the Government looks set to increase the fuel excise tax nationwide by between 3c a litre and 4c.
As fuel prices rise, Canstar Blue's research also found that more people are considering swapping from petrol to electric vehicle.
Their latest survey found 36 per cent of people would consider buying an electric vehicle because they believed they would be cheaper to run and 40 per cent would consider one because they are better for the environment. 16 per cent of motorists added that they wanted to see more charging stations.
Although 59 per cent of people surveyed said they would go to a gas station that allowed them to use discount vouchers, price was not the most important factor when it came to rating their experience.
The study found appearance and cleanliness was the greatest driver of overall customer satisfaction.
-Driven, NZ Herald
Fuel Price in NZ
- Fuel excise and Emission Trading Scheme levy – 35%
- Importer margin – 22%
- GST – 13%
- Shipping – 2%
- Fuel - 28%