Fuel companies have said there are a healthy number of ships on the water or planned for later in April. This data will next be updated on the afternoon of March 30.<\/p>\n
Finance Minister Nicola said the figures showed \u201cnormal\u201d fluctuations in demand. <\/p>\n
She said it was not concerning to only have two shipments arriving in the next fortnight, saying it was \u201cwithin normal patterns of ship arrivals\u201d she said fuel companies assured here they were expecting more ships. <\/p>\n
Fuel alert system coming Friday<\/p>\n
Willis confirmed she would give an update on New Zealand\u2019s four fuel alert levels on Friday, outlining a framework of what would cause the country to move up the alert system. A move to level 2 would see the first demand restrictions placed on fuel.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will give answers to some of the questions that New Zealanders are asking: What is that framework look like? What are the different phases of response that the Government envisages? What would be the triggers to move to additional measures? How would ministers assess that? How would they work with the industry to make those things happen?\u201d<\/p>\n
Willis said the announcement would show more detail and next steps. On Monday, she said the Government had got advice on whether a law change would be necessary to trigger demand restrictions. <\/p>\n
\u201cThere could be scenarios in which fuel orders for New Zealand are disrupted and that is one of the things we will assess,\u201d she said. <\/p>\n
On Monday, Willis joined Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones to announce the Government would harmonise some fuel standards<\/a> with Australia to encourage ships loaded with fuel to stop in New Zealand on their voyage.<\/p>\n \u201cCountries that can access a wider range of shipments are better placed to keep fuel flowing,\u201d Jones said.<\/p>\n Fuel refined to Australian standards was compatible with New Zealand vehicles, Jones said. The fuel also met safety and quality expectations, he added.<\/p>\n New Zealand would not, however, be following Australia\u2019s lead and relaxing standards to allow higher-sulphur fuel, although the Government would monitor whether further changes to fuel specifications could open up further supply channels if necessary.<\/p>\n This arrangement could remain in place for up to 12 months if needed.<\/p>\n