Fuel shortage

Find out what each stage of the fuel shortage means for the University and the support available.

New Zealand situation

Aotearoa New Zealand is facing disruptions to the supply of petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. The Government has responded with the Fuel Response Plan 2026, with four phases:

  • Phase 1—Watchful
  • Phase 2—Precautionary
  • Phase 3—Managed
  • Phase 4—Protected

New Zealand is currently in Phase 1. Find out more about the Government's response phases.

How the University will respond

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will take a measured approach in its operational response to the fuel shortage. This page provides some guidance as to what you might expect to see at each phase. Final decisions will be made and communicated by the University after the Government has announced a phase change.

Phase 1—Watchful (current phase)

What's happening

The fuel market is operating effectively and fuel is available nationwide. However, prices are rising due to global market changes.

What this means at the University

  • Teaching and learning continue as normal.
  • Student-facing services are open as normal.
  • Initiatives to enable increased use of public transport and carpooling are enabled.
  • No restrictions on travel.
  • The University will continue with Phase 2 contingency planning.

Phase 2—Precautionary

What's happening

The market continues to operate effectively and fuel is available nationwide, but there are signs of significant supply disruptions.

What this means at the University

  • Normal working arrangements continue, with any exceptional individual needs approved by direct line managers.
  • Teaching and learning continue as normal.
  • Student-facing services are open as normal.
  • If you're unable to attend classes or assessments due to fuel costs, course coordinators can arrange compassionate consideration.
  • All areas of the University including faculties, schools, central business units, research facilities, student-facing services and halls) will prioritise business continuity plans for Phase 3 and 4. This will include urgent planning for possible hybrid and online teaching in Phase 3.
  • Travel permitted in accordance with University and MFAT guidance, within existing approved budgets.

Phase 3—Managed

What's happening

Supply is tighter and the Government is making sure fuel gets where it is needed most.

What this means at the University

  • Scheduling and resourcing will be prioritised for in-person assessments and practical teaching, in line with business continuity plans.
  • Travel requests, both domestic and international, will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with approval required at Head of School or Director level.

Phase 4—Protected

What's happening

There is a bigger or sustained supply disruption, and there are formal rules to ensure fuel is distributed fairly.

What this means at the University

  • Essential services, including but not limited to halls, library, Mauri Ora, security and some research laboratories, remain open.
  • All learning and teaching moves online.
  • Widespread working from home for all staff not engaged in essential on-campus services.
  • On-campus events to be considered on a case-by-case basis, with Te Ama level approval required.
  • Travel, both domestic and international, is to be considered on a case-by-case basis, with more limited approval likely.