Fuel prices are set to rise. Here’s how your business can prepare

New Zealand businesses are once again bracing for a likely increase in fuel costs as global events take hold. 

The unpredictability of the Middle East conflict has renewed serious concerns about global oil supply, following several months of significant volatility. While the market has responded with some relief to news of a framework deal to end the war, announced on 15 June 2026, Finance Minister Nicola Willis had previously warned of potential “acute cost of living pressures” ahead.  

Commentators cited by the BBC also suggested that the lack of detail in the framework would “likely inject unease and uncertainty into the market”, at least for a period. 

New Zealand is especially exposed to these global shocks. Since the Marsden Point refinery closed in 2022, New Zealand has imported all of its refined fuel, mostly from South Korea and Singapore. These refineries rely on crude oil shipped through the waters now affected by the conflict.  

Economists say there are increasing signs that the worst-case inflation scenario may not now eventuate, but the situation remains fluid. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has confirmed that while there are currently no disruptions to supply requiring changes to how businesses buy fuels, the price of petrol and diesel is expected to continue to climb in the coming weeks, and businesses should plan ahead for higher fuel costs.  

According to the Commerce Commission’s Fuel Price Monitoring report of 11 June 2026, retail fuel prices in New Zealand have remained elevated throughout the conflict period.  

For businesses that rely on vehicles every day, any sustained increases will strain already tight budgets. 

What could this mean for businesses? 

Fuel is one of those costs that businesses can’t easily avoid. Whether you manage a handful of vehicles or an entire fleet, higher pump prices place additional pressure on operating costs. 

The good news is that there are still ways to help manage fuel spend, regardless of how fuel markets move in the coming months. CardSmart can help. 

Three practical ways to manage rising fuel costs 

1. Utilise fuel cards for complete spending control

Fuel cards could revolutionise how you manage your fleet’s expenses. They offer comprehensive control thanks to customisable spending limits and features that help keep drivers within budget. Plus, you can say goodbye to the hassle of collecting receipts and paperwork. 

Centralised reporting means you can easily track where and how much your fleet is spending, painting a detailed picture of any unusual spending patterns. By integrating fuel card data with your fleet management system, you can keep a close eye on consumption trends and make smarter, data-driven decisions. 

Why not check out CardSmart’s Fuel Savings Calculator to compare options and optimise your fleet’s spending? 

2. Gain better visibility over fuel spend

Understanding where your money is going is a critical step towards controlling costs. CardSmart’s consolidated reporting and account management tools make it easier to monitor transactions, track spending patterns and manage fuel expenses across your business. 

In addition, CardSmart helps you manage your fleet through a connected platform that brings together sophisticated data and reporting. Access real-time reporting to track transactions, monitor driver behaviour, set spend limits and control fuel types used by your fleet.  

3. Reduce unnecessary fuel use with smarter route planning

Understanding where and how fuel is being used can help identify opportunities to improve efficiency and manage costs more effectively. 

Mapping out your routes is a quick and easy way to lower fuel consumption. By optimising how your fleet travels from point A to point B, you can minimise unnecessary mileage and make meaningful savings on fuel costs. 

Additionally, utilising a broad network of fuel stations helps your drivers steer clear of pricier refuelling spots. Encouraging drivers to plan their refuelling stops and coordinate trips not only saves fuel but also cuts down on downtime. Even minor adjustments to your routing and refuelling strategies can deliver savings over time, especially during periods of elevated fuel prices. 

Visit our CardSmart Site Locator to find the closest partner fuel and service location near you. 

Get in touch today! 

As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, having the right fuel card in place can help New Zealand businesses stay in control and keep moving. 

CardSmart helps Kiwi businesses manage fuel and fleet expenses with fuel discounts, reporting tools and access to a wide network of fuel and vehicle service locations across New Zealand. To learn more, contact CardSmart to chat to our team.