New Zealand to nearly triple EV charging points with $110M investment
New Zealand to nearly triple EV charging points with $110M investment
New Zealand to nearly triple EV charging points with $110M investment
The New Zealand government has announced funding for 2574 new public electric vehicle (EV) charge points. The move will nearly triple the country's current network, bringing the total to around 4550 chargers nationwide. ChargeNet and Meridian Energy have been chosen to roll out the new infrastructure after a competitive bidding process.
The expansion includes 1374 DC fast chargers and 1200 AC chargers. DC fast chargers can recharge an EV in 20 to 60 minutes, making them ideal for highways and locations where drivers make short stops. AC chargers, while slower, are better suited for places like shopping centres, workplaces, and residential areas where cars park for longer.
About half of the new chargers will be installed in major cities, with the remaining spread across regional areas. The investment also supports the adoption of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), as more public AC chargers become available.
The total cost of the project exceeds $110 million. The government is providing concessionary loans, while ChargeNet and Meridian Energy will contribute $60 million of their own funds. This initiative aligns with the government's goal of reaching 10,000 charge points by 2030—roughly one for every 40 EVs on the road.
The new chargers will significantly expand New Zealand's EV infrastructure. With faster charging options along highways and more AC points in urban and regional areas, the network aims to meet growing demand. The project marks a major step toward the country's 2030 target for EV charging access.