March 31, 2026

#economy: Te Pāti Māori Seeks Answers on Fuel Supply as Costs Surge

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 31, 2026

Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer is ramping up pressure on the Government over New Zealand’s fuel supply, lodging formal parliamentary questions and Official Information Act requests to uncover what Ministers know about the country’s forward supply outlook.

The move comes as fuel prices continue to climb, with households and small businesses facing sharp increases at the pump. Concerns are growing about the accuracy of official supply projections and whether there is a widening gap between what is publicly reported and what is actually secured.

Ngarewa-Packer is seeking detailed information on confirmed fuel shipments for the coming months, as well as internal Government modelling on diesel supply risks. Her requests also extend to Cabinet material related to fuel policy decisions and communications between officials and fuel companies.

At the centre of the scrutiny is Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones, who has held the portfolio for more than two years. Questions are being raised about whether sufficient action has been taken to strengthen New Zealand’s energy resilience, particularly in light of ongoing global supply pressures.

Te Pāti Māori argues that policy moves such as aligning fuel standards with Australia do not address underlying supply vulnerabilities, especially as Australia itself faces disruptions from shared suppliers.

The party is also highlighting the disproportionate impact on rural and Māori communities, where reliance on fuel is higher and alternatives are limited. Concerns have been raised that current Government relief measures do not adequately reach those most affected, including low-income households, students, kaumātua and those in remote areas.

Ngarewa-Packer says greater transparency is needed so communities can make informed decisions, and to ensure risks are not being understated.

Te Pāti Māori has signalled it will continue to scrutinise the Government’s handling of the issue, with a focus on ensuring Māori and rural communities are not left bearing the brunt of any supply shortfalls.