Eaqub said the data some areas would be more exposed to fuel price rises than others. "What I was trying to get at is who are the essential workers, and how far did they travel, where are those people based? Rural essential sectors have double burden, economist saysOtago University economist Murat Ungor agreed rising fuel prices did not affect regions equally. He said essential workers in many areas had no practical alternative to driving so they were not able to avoid being subject to fuel price volatility. In Hamilton City, 83% of manufacturing workers drive, and in Tauranga City, 81% of transport workers drive.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 03, 2026 08:23 UTC