"Ministry of Commerce analysis shows that the increases in pump prices experienced so far in New Zealand have not been out of line with the movements in world prices," Enterprise and Commerce Minister Max Bradford said today.

“As world crude oil and petrol prices move up, we must expect pump prices in New Zealand to follow, just as they have when crude oil prices have fallen. This has also been the experience with pump prices in other countries.

“Because New Zealand petrol retailers have similar costs, it is not especially surprising to see pump price movements at different outlets closely follow each other," Mr Bradford said.

"However, there will on occasion be market positioning by retailers, and recently the South Island was advantaged by some lesser increases than those experienced in the North Island.

“The Government is committed to ensuring that we have a competitive petrol market operating in the best interest of consumers.

"Accordingly, I have asked the Ministry of Commerce to continue to monitor price movements closely and report regularly to me.

"Consumers can encourage competition by patronising retailers offering the lowest prices.

"If the Automobile Association has any evidence of anti-competitive activities, it can draw it to the attention of the Commerce Commission, but there will need to be real evidence provided,” Mr Bradford said.

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