New analysis finds that Kiwis impacted by increasing global fuel prices can make material savings at the pump through a few smart habits, according to EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority). 

The tips could stretch your tank up to 20% – making every dollar spent on fuel go that much further. EECA found actions – like checking tyre pressure, sitting at a steady speed, and lightening the load – would equate up to a $44 saving on every tank. 

“There are simple changes people can make straight away that will reduce fuel use and save money,” said Richard Briggs, EECA’s GM Business and Partnerships. “We’ve broken the numbers down in detail to help New Zealanders understand how much of a difference these small actions can make – and the savings increase as the price of fuel does, too.” 

EECA analysis also shows benefits to New Zealand as a whole. Briggs says, “For example, if just 5% of drivers adopt the actions that work for them, per week fuel use will reduce by up to approximately 1 million litres, equivalent to around $3.5 million in savings each week. 

“The focus of the initiative is supporting Kiwis at an individual level. But this could also have a positive impact as a country in terms of total fuel use, and we want to acknowledge that. It’s a good thing,” said Briggs.   

“When people understand what works, they’ll choose the options that suit them. If the needs of households and drivers change over time, we’ll continue to update the information we provide.”   

EECA’s fuel efficiency focused tips are:   

Watch your speed: The faster you drive, the more air resistance you meet.   

Driving at a moderate speed will reduce your fuel use.   

  • Decreasing your speed from 100km/h to 90k/h saves up to 7% 
  • Decreasing to 80km/h saves 14%-15% 

Smooth your drive: Try to accelerate gently and avoid braking too hard.    

If you master smooth, steady driving, you’ll use less fuel.    

  • If you’re on the highway, use cruise control to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration 
  • Steady driving can save 10% on fuel 

Lighten your load: Extra weight makes your engine work harder.   

Clearing out the boot and removing unused bike racks or roof racks makes a difference.    

  • Removing small roof racks can save 2%, and bigger cargo boxes can be over 15% 

Check your tyre pressure: All tyres gradually lose air, so they need to be checked monthly, and inflated correctly.  

  • The wrong tyre pressure can increase fuel use. Look inside the driver’s door or your owner’s manual to check the pressures for your car. 
  • Tyre pressure is measured in psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascals). Every 5psi your tyres are underinflated increases fuel use by 1% 

Switch off when waiting: Use your car’s stop/start technology if you have it, and if you’re stopping for more than 30 seconds, and in a safe place, switch the engine off.    

  • Auto stop-start can save you around 4–10% on fuel during city driving, but it’s less effective on roads where you don’t need to stop very often, like highways 

Briggs says, “With fuel costs front of mind for many households, we’re encouraging people to give the actions a go and see for themselves the difference they can make.” 

For more tips on how to save fuel and money New Zealanders can visit fuelsavingtips.govt.nz(external link)   

Additional information 

EECA is the government agency that works to improve the energy efficiency of New Zealand's homes and businesses and encourages the uptake of renewable energy.  

Assumptions and references