National Fuel Response Plan - Phase 4 Prioritisation

Here's a quick look at the latest updates regarding the National Fuel Response Plan from the Government which might affect you as a care worker if the current situation changes.

What You Need to Know

New Zealand has a comprehensive Fuel Response Plan to manage potential fuel supply disruptions. While we currently remain in Phase 1 (Watchful) and fuel supply is normal, the Government has clarified how fuel would be prioritised if we ever reached Phase 4 – a severe, prolonged disruption scenario that remains highly unlikely.

Phase 4 Fuel Priority Categories

If Phase 4 is activated, fuel access would be managed through four categories:

Critical Users – Uncapped priority access, including:

• Healthcare services, hospitals, aged care and disability support services
• Emergency services (ambulance, fire, police)
• Schools and education providers
• Essential utilities and infrastructure
• Courts, corrections, and core government functions

Food and Freight – Uncapped access with fuel-saving plans required to meet government reduction targets.

Commercial and Community Users – Access through fuel-saving plans with higher reduction targets than food and freight.

General Public – Transaction limits at retail fuel stations to manage overall consumption.

What This Means for Healthcare Workers

Aged care and disability support services are classified as Critical Users under the plan. This means these essential services would maintain full access to fuel needed to continue caring for vulnerable New Zealanders, even in the most extreme scenario.

Current Status

There is no fuel shortage. New Zealand continues to receive regular fuel shipments and supply remains normal. Continue purchasing and using fuel as usual.

For more information, visit the MBIE website.