Should NZ follow Australia's lead and increase fuel reserves? AA says no
The New Zealand Automobile Association (AA) has advised against increasing the country's fuel reserves, despite Australia's recent move to boost its own supply. The AA argues that New Zealand's current supply agreements are sufficient for its economic needs.
Why it matters
This reflects ongoing debates regarding national energy security and the balance between supply costs and risk management.
Shipments of 3.2 billion litres of fuel are on their way to Australia, which will boost the country's fuel reserve up to 46 days of petrol, 39 days of diesel, and 34 days of jet fuel.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was more supply than Australia had ever had at once.
The Automobile Association said there is no need.
"The Australians have a different requirement than what we do. Ours is around security of supply for economic means, theirs is for both economic and security means," AA fuel spokesperson Terry Collins said.
"They have fighter aircraft and different weaponry, and having bigger reserves would probably recognise the fact they need it for both economic and security reasons."
Collins said New Zealand's supply remained steady, thanks to agreements with other nations like South Korea and Singapore.
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