10 Apr 2026

How smarter driving can lower your fuel costs

Fuel prices across New Zealand keep shifting, and many businesses are looking for ways to spend less at the pump. The good news? A few small changes to how you drive could make a real difference.

Here are some practical shifts you can start making today.

1. Ease off the accelerator

How you speed up and brake has a big impact on fuel use. Rapid acceleration and harsh braking burn more fuel than you might think. Try accelerating gradually, reading traffic ahead, and braking smoothly.

2. Keep your speed steady

Driving faster might save a few minutes, but it could increase your fuel spend. Wind resistance rises significantly at higher speeds. Where possible, hold a consistent speed — especially on the highway.

3. Cut back on short trips

Cold engines use more fuel, making short trips surprisingly inefficient. Try combining errands into one trip and planning your journeys in advance.

4. Turn off the engine when stopped

Leaving your vehicle running while parked wastes fuel. If you are stopped for more than a short time, switching the engine off is often the better option.

5. Check your tyre pressure

Under-inflated tyres create more resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Regular tyre checks could help improve fuel efficiency — and extend tyre lifespan too.

6. Lighten the load

The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it uses. Consider removing equipment you do not need to avoid carrying excess weight. Contact your Relationship Manager if you would like to discuss removing any fitted accessories or fit out components.

7. Be smart with air conditioning

Air conditioning increases fuel use. Use it only when needed, and think about whether open windows might be a better option.

8. Stay on top of servicing

A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Regular servicing in line with manufacturer requirements helps keep engine performance and fuel use where they should be.

Go further with a newer, more efficient vehicle

Driving habits make a difference, but the vehicle itself plays a major role in fuel costs too. Newer vehicles are built with more efficient engines, improved aerodynamics, and advanced transmission systems — all of which could help lower your fuel spend.
For many businesses, upgrading to a newer vehicle could reduce fuel use and overall running costs.

This is where leasing could help your business. With a lease, you get access to newer, more fuel efficient vehicles without a large upfront capital outlay. You can upgrade more frequently, keeping pace with the latest efficiency improvements — and explore hybrid or electric options as they become more viable. And with predictable monthly payments, budgeting gets easier too.

Rather than running older, less efficient vehicles for longer, leasing helps businesses stay current with the technology that could lower their fuel spend.

The bottom line

Saving money on fuel does not require drastic changes. A few adjustments to everyday driving habits, combined with regular servicing, could reduce your fuel use and lower costs.

For businesses, pairing these habits with newer, more efficient vehicles could unlock even greater savings — improving both operational efficiency and long-term cost control.