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What this solves
In New Zealand's more remote regions, the gap between petrol stations can exceed 200 km. On the West Coast between Hokitika and Wanaka, the longest stretch is roughly 250 km via Haast Pass, with one small station in the middle. East Cape has sections where the next station is 130 km away on a winding road. Run out of fuel in those places and you'll wait hours for assistance.
This tool tells you exactly which station to fill at, what buffer to keep in the tank, and where the risk points are. Sunday and small-town station hours are factored in.
How to read the result
- Refuel at lists every station on the route and shows the gap to the next one.
- Risk is the % of your total range used by the gap. Above 70% = high risk.
- Recommended buffer is how much fuel to keep in reserve (half a tank rule).
- Sunday / holiday closures are flagged in red.
Limitations
- Station opening hours change; this is a 2026 reference only.
- Not every station on the map is listed — small rural stations often open limited hours.
- For EVs, use the Chargenet network map (separate from petrol).
FAQ
Q: Are NZ petrol stations more expensive in remote areas?
A: Yes, often 10–25¢/L higher than urban prices. Diesel is sometimes cheaper.
A: Yes, often 10–25¢/L higher than urban prices. Diesel is sometimes cheaper.
Q: Do I need cash for remote stations?
A: Most modern stations take cards 24 h. A few older stations accept only cards or pumps-with-pin, not contactless. Carry a PIN.
A: Most modern stations take cards 24 h. A few older stations accept only cards or pumps-with-pin, not contactless. Carry a PIN.
Q: Are 24 h stations common in remote NZ?
A: Only on main highways. Smaller towns often close at 18:00 or 19:00 in winter.
A: Only on main highways. Smaller towns often close at 18:00 or 19:00 in winter.
Sources
- Gaspy NZ — petrol prices by station
- NZTA journey planner
- MBIE weekly petrol price survey