The Government’s latest update on its fuel plan provides some welcome clarity, but significant questions remain about what it will mean for New Zealanders if the situation worsens.
“Today’s additional detail is helpful, and New Zealanders will want to see the Government continuing to build out a clear and credible plan, but there are still gaps,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.
“Kiwis want to know what happens in the more severe phases of a fuel shortage, what further restrictions could look like, and how they will be able to go about their lives and access support.
“Households will be worrying about what this means for their weekly budgets. Fuel prices flow through to food, transport and everyday essentials – and people need to know there is a plan if things get worse.
“New Zealanders were already doing it tough before the fuel crisis began. Things are a lot harder for Kiwis than they needed to be - and not because of what is happening in Iran, but because of the choices this government made before the conflict even started.
“They’ve made the cost of living worse. They made the country more dependent on foreign fuel sources. They’ve failed to grow the economy, making it harder for businesses to keep the lights on.
“The relief package earlier this week will bring welcome relief to some families. But it’ll be another two weeks before they receive anything - and for most Kiwis, there is nothing at all to ease the pressure. Thousands are missing out, including working people who don’t have kids, students, and people who are retired.
“The Government needs to be upfront with New Zealanders about what the later phases of this crisis could look like and how it plans to support them through it,” Chris Hipkins said.
