EV car running costs tripled you may ask? RUC? Or be dammed about the environment.
I bought a pure EV Ioniq 2021 car last year. Lots of reasons environment etc. mainly running costs. I knew RUC ((Road users charges)) were coming. But when they confirmed the amount, I was shocked.
Currently my EV cost to run approx. $3 /100k plus RUC of $7.60 it is about to be $10.60
My wifes pure petrol car approximately similar size, cost to run approximately $13.75/100km (5 liters) also. broken down though petrol excise duty (petrol equivalent of RUC) @0.70c per l = $3.50 that is a huge increase of RUC over 100% for EV, WHY?
I do believe in user pays but begs the question why double because I pay less for the fuel, being electric? We are supposed to be green sustainable country and yet those like me, are penalized for doing the right thing. In fact, if I had a car double the weight which would cause more damage to the roads it's the same price not more for the expensive RUC, So unjust and unfair.
If there was a stepped for small EV, medium EV and heavy EV, and huge 3-3.5 tones, that would be fair. RUC charges all pure EV and diesel up to 3.5 Tonne are all priced the same.
Only way to escape it if I had a super light small EV car and I would not have to pay at all. Anyone selling a 999kgs or less EV? Maybe move to hybrid non pluggable petrol car and have smaller running cost and be dammed about the environment?
I edited as my run to Hamilton there and back was $6 which is 200km...
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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52.4% Human-centred experience and communication
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15% Critical thinking
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29.7% Resilience and adaptability
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2.8% Other - I will share below!
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
❤️ Have You Had Your Heart Health Check (CVDRA)?
Did you know you may be eligible for a Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment with our Registered Nurse?
A CVDRA is a simple check that helps estimate your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years. Even if you feel well, heart disease can develop silently so checking your risk early is key.
During your appointment, our Nurse will:
✔️ Check your blood pressure
✔️ Review your cholesterol and blood test results
✔️ Discuss your medical and family history
✔️ Talk about lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, and exercise
✔️ Calculate your individual heart risk score
✔️ Offer free support with our Health Coach who can help implement lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.
This assessment helps us work together to keep your heart healthy and prevent future problems.
📩 If you receive a recall from us, please book in it’s quick, straightforward, and could make a big difference to your long-term health.
If you’re unsure whether you’re due, contact our team and we’ll be happy to check for you.
Looking after your heart today protects your tomorrow. ❤️
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