Are Fuel Cards a Smart Move for NZ Sole Traders? Here’s What to Know

If you’re a sole trader in New Zealand, whether you’re on the tools, behind the wheel, or running your business from your laptop, chances are fuel is a regular part of your weekly spend. And if you’ve been wondering whether a fuel card could help you save, simplify your admin, or just feel a bit more in control of your costs… you’re not alone.

Fuel cards used to be something only big fleets bothered with. But now, more sole traders and small operators are jumping on board—and for good reason. In this guide, we’ll break down how fuel cards work, what they actually offer NZ sole traders, and which providers are worth a look in 2025.

What is a Fuel Card and How Does it Work?

A fuel card is like a business-only payment card that’s restricted to fuel and related purchases. You swipe it at the pump or in-store at participating fuel stations, and the charges are linked back to a single account, with all your transactions bundled into a monthly invoice.
Unlike a personal credit card, fuel cards offer:

• Consistent fuel discounts (often up to 15–20c per litre during promos)
• Transaction tracking by vehicle or user
• GST-friendly invoices for BAS or tax time
• Optional spend controls and limits

For sole traders, it’s a simple way to separate business fuel from personal spend, and potentially save money while you’re at it.

Can NZ Sole Traders Get a Fuel Card?

Yes. In fact, fuel cards are ideal for sole traders, because you can apply with just your NZBN, and you don’t need to meet any minimum vehicle requirements. Whether you’re filling up once a week or every day, there are cards tailored to your setup. You’ll generally need:

• A valid NZBN or GST number
• A New Zealand business address
• A clean credit history

Some providers may ask for a short trading history or some kind of guarantee if you’re a brand-new business.

Why More NZ Sole Traders Are Choosing Fuel Cards

Real Fuel Savings

Discounts typically range from 6c to 12c per litre on regular fuel, and up to 20c per litre during promotional periods, especially with providers like NPD and Allied.

For example:

• NPD offers up to 20c/l promo savings via text alerts
• Allied gives 8c/l off petrol and 9c/l off diesel ongoing
• Z Business Plus gives 9c/l off across all fuel types, with no monthly card fee

Even if you’re only filling up 100L a month, that could be $10 – $20 in your pocket.

No More Chasing Receipts

With a fuel card, all your transactions are tracked in one place. You’ll get a single invoice each month with GST clearly itemised, making it easier to manage deductions and speed up your BAS prep.

Simpler Admin

Need to know how much you spent on diesel last quarter? Want to check if you’re due a fuel refund from a contractor job? Most providers offer online portals or apps that make this data easy to find. Some even integrate with Xero or MYOB.

Extra Control

Many cards let you set limits per transaction, block in-store purchases, or restrict card use to fuel only. It’s a great way to stop overspending, especially if others are using the vehicle too.

What Are the Best Fuel Cards for NZ Sole Traders in 2025?

Here’s a quick breakdown of popular fuel card options for NZ sole traders using the latest data:

Key takeaway: If you’re loyal to one brand like Z or Allied, you’ll likely get the best value by sticking with their own card. If you travel widely or fill up wherever’s convenient, CardSmart would give you more flexibility.

What to Watch Out For

Fuel cards come with real benefits, but there are a few things worth checking before you sign up:

1. Are There Fees?

Some cards have ongoing monthly fees (e.g. BP Fuel Card is $2.95/month), while others are completely free. Also look for hidden fees like transaction charges or courier fees for new cards.

2. What’s the Station Coverage Like?

Z Business Plus might give great savings, but if you live rurally and Z stations are scarce, it might not work for you. Use each provider’s station locator before you commit.

3. Are You Eligible?

Most sole traders will be eligible for a fuel card, but if your business is brand new or your credit history is patchy, you might be asked to prepay or provide more info. Some cards, like Allied and Waitomo, are more lenient than others.

4. Do Discounts Apply to All Fuel Types?

Some providers only discount regular petrol or diesel. Others (like Z Business Plus and Allied) apply the same discount across premium fuels too.

Fuel Card vs. Business Credit Card

If you’re currently putting all your fuel on a business credit card, here’s a quick comparison:

Bottom line: For fuel-specific benefits, tracking, and GST simplicity, a fuel card almost always wins.

How to Apply for a Fuel Card in NZ

The process is usually simple and online. You’ll need:

• NZBN and business contact details
• Bank or credit card for billing
• Basic trading info (length of time, average fuel spend)

Most approvals are done in 1–2 working days, and cards arrive by mail shortly after. Some providers offer digital cards to get started straight away.

Not Sure Which Fuel Card to Choose?

If you’re still unsure which card makes sense for your business, start with three key questions:

1. Where do you usually fill up? If you only use Z, BP or NPD, their own card will usually give the best price and experience.
2. How often do you refuel? Frequent drivers may benefit more from higher discounts and advanced tracking.
3. Do you care more about discounts or flexibility? If you need the freedom to fill up anywhere, CardSmart or Gull FleetCard offer broader access across multiple brands.

Next Steps: Find the Right Fuel Card for Your Business

For NZ sole traders, fuel cards aren’t just for big fleets; they’re a practical, cost-saving tool that makes business life easier. You don’t need to be clocking thousands of kilometres a week to benefit. Whether you want to simplify your invoicing, unlock discounts, or just stop chasing fuel receipts, there’s a card out there that fits.

Want to see which fuel card you’re eligible for?

👉 Check Now (it only takes 2 minutes) 

CHECK ELIGIBILITY HERE

Maximize fuel savings for your business

Compare Cards

FAQs

Do I need a company or staff to get a fuel card?

Nope. If you’re a sole trader with an NZBN, you can apply for most business fuel cards, even if you’re the only person using it.

What’s the minimum fuel spend to qualify?

There’s no strict minimum. Some providers may ask about your estimated monthly fuel use, but even low-usage sole traders are eligible.

Can I use a fuel card for personal fuel?

Technically yes, but it’s best to keep business and personal fuel separate, especially for GST and tax reporting. If you’re using it for both, make sure you track your usage.

What if my business is new?

Many providers accept new sole traders, though some may ask for a prepayment or deposit if you haven’t been trading long. Cards like Allied or Waitomo tend to be more flexible.

Do fuel cards help with GST and tax?

Yes. Business fuel cards give you monthly invoices with GST clearly itemised, which makes claiming deductions and doing your BAS much easier.

Are there any hidden fees?

Some cards have monthly fees, transaction charges, or courier fees for sending out physical cards. Always check the fine print before signing up.

Can I choose which fuel stations I use?

It depends on the card. Some are brand-specific (like Z or BP), while others (like CardSmart or Gull FleetCard) let you fill up across multiple networks.

What kind of savings can I expect?

Typical ongoing discounts range from 6c to 12c per litre. Promo periods (like with NPD) can push that up to 20c per litre.

Is a fuel card better than using a business credit card?

For fuel-specific expenses, yes. Fuel cards give you automatic discounts, spending controls, and GST-friendly invoices, which credit cards don’t usually provide.

How long does it take to get set up?

Most applications take 1–2 business days to process, and your physical card arrives within a week. Some providers offer digital cards for faster access.

*Fuel discounts and any fees listed are indicative only and subject to change. Actual savings often depend on factors such as business usage, monthly spend, card type, and provider terms. Always check with your chosen fuel card provider for the most up-to-date rates and eligibility criteria.