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Fuel is one of those everyday costs that can feel unpredictable and, at times, frustratingly high. Whether you are commuting, running errands or heading away for a break, the price at the pump can quickly add up. In “Taking control back at the petrol pump,” Lifetime Retirement Income explains how New Zealanders can better manage fuel costs by understanding pricing, timing and the tools available to them.

The article looks at practical ways to reduce spending, from choosing where and when to fill up to making use of discounts and loyalty programmes. With a bit of awareness and planning, it shows that drivers can take back some control over what often feels like an unavoidable expense.

You can read the original article here: Coping with pressure at the pump.  

Or you can read the article published in full below and tell us what you think in the comments section.

 

Coping with pressure at the pump

Soaring petrol prices, driven higher by the turmoil in the Middle East, have sparked queues and panic buying at stations across the country. For retirees on fixed incomes, the spike will bite hard. You can’t control global tensions – but you can take back some control at the pump.

Oil markets have been in disarray, with oil shipments disrupted through the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. This has triggered volatility in global energy markets, driving up fuel costs at home and putting yet more pressure on the cost of living.

If you’re concerned about how wider market swings may affect your investments, Martin Hawes’ earlier article, Stomaching the ups and downs of investing offers useful context on coping with market volatility in retirement.

While there's no quick fix for international geopolitics, small adjustments at home can still make a meaningful difference to your fuel bill and your budget. Here are some practical, everyday strategies to help stretch every litre at the pump. 

 

1. Drive smarter, not harder

Smooth, steady driving burns less fuel. Hard braking and rapid acceleration chew through petrol fast, so aim to ease into stops and keep your speed consistent. If your car has cruise control, use it.

Speed matters too. According to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), dropping from 100 km/h to 80 km/h can cut fuel use by around 15% (only do this if it is safe). And the Motor Trade Association notes that for every 10 km/h over 90 km/h, fuel consumption rises by about 6%. The faster you go, the faster your money disappears.

And don’t forget idling. If you’re parked and waiting, switch off the engine unless it’s a very brief stop.

 

2. Cut back on the quick trips

Cold engines are thirsty engines. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency figures show that short trips use 20% more fuel when the car is cold. So, try batching errands into one longer trip - and consider walking or biking when it’s practical. It’s good for your wallet and your body.

 

3. Lose the extra weight and drag

SDriving around with sports gear, tools, or a roof rack when you’re not using them? That added weight and wind resistance mean extra fuel burned. Even driving with windows down at higher speeds increases drag.

And yes, the air conditioning uses extra petrol too. Use it when you need it, but don’t blast it unnecessarily.

 

4. Pump up those tyres

Proper tyre pressure is one of the easiest ways to improve fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres make your car work harder, wasting petrol. Remember to add extra pressure when towing or carrying heavy loads, and don’t forget the trailer tyres.

 

5. Keep your car in good shape

A well-maintained vehicle can use 10–20% less fuel, according to EECA. Regular servicing, clean filters, and even choosing eco-tyres can make a noticeable difference.

 

6. Shop around before you fill up

Fuel prices vary more than you might think - even within the same town. Apps like Gaspy can point you to the cheapest pump nearby, helping you save. 

And remember, as a HealthCarePlus member, you can access practical savings that help reduce everyday costs. 

With Kora, members receive at least 10 cents per litre off fuel at Mobil and Waitomo stations every time they fill up. For many households, that can mean up to $400 back in their pocket each year.

It’s a simple, consistent way to reduce one of your most regular weekly expenses — and a good example of how small changes can add up to meaningful value over time.

 Kora Fuel - blog inline cta

 

Final thoughts from us

At HealthCarePlus, we know that managing everyday costs plays an important role in overall wellbeing. Fuel may seem like a fixed expense, but small changes in habits and choices can make a noticeable difference over time.
 
Taking advantage of available savings, planning ahead and staying informed can help reduce pressure on your budget. You can also see how this works in practice in our member story on everyday fuel savings, where one busy household shares how small changes made a real difference.
 
Because when you feel more in control of everyday spending, it becomes easier to focus on the things that matter most.
 
 
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Written by: Sonia Speedy

Sonia Speedy has been a journalist for over 20 years, working in newspapers, magazines and radio. She also runs an online platform for parents at familytimes.co.nz. She lives on the Kāpiti Coast with her young family and loves writing stories that help make people's lives easier.

 

 

Have you thought about Lifetime Retirement Income to look after your money in retirement?  

They know that people spending in retirement require significantly different strategies to those who are saving for retirement.  They manage retirees money a little differently to people who are saving for retirement. The reason for that is we have to make sure retirees savings last.

So click on the button below and take a couple of minutes to read all about them.

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