How to Use a Fuel Card (Step-by-Step Guide)

What is a fuel card and why use one?

A fuel card works much like a credit or debit card but is designed for petrol, diesel, and vehicle expenses. In New Zealand, cards like Card Smart, BP Fuelcard, Kora Fuel Card and Gull Fleetcard are widely accepted. They offer:

• Discounts on every litre of fuel (depending on provider)
• One monthly invoice instead of chasing receipts.
• GST reporting already sorted.
• Controls so you can block non-fuel purchases if needed.

For small businesses, tradies, or fleet operators, fuel cards save time and make costs easier to manage.

How to use a fuel card

Step 1: Apply for a fuel card

Choose a provider that covers the stations you use most. Card Smart is multi-brand and works at thousands of sites, while single-brand cards like BP or Z offer stronger loyalty perks. In most cases you’ll just need your NZBN or IRD number, proof of ID, and sometimes a credit check. Applications are online and can be approved in a few days.

Step 2: Receive and activate your card

Once approved, your card arrives in the mail. Most providers let you activate it online or via their mobile app. You’ll set up a PIN at this stage. Some providers also let you customise limits, like fuel-only spend or weekly caps.

Step 3: Fill up at participating stations

When you’re at the pump, insert your fuel card just like a credit card. Enter your PIN, select your fuel type, and start filling. If you’re using a multi-brand card, you can choose from several stations. With a single-brand card, stick to your brand’s network to ensure discounts apply.

Step 4: Keep track of your spend

Every transaction is logged on your account. Instead of piles of receipts, you’ll get one GST-ready invoice each month. This makes reconciling fuel spend for your business or tax return much faster. Some cards also offer online dashboards and apps so you can track usage in real time.

Step 5: Pay your statement

Fuel cards are not pre-paid. You’ll receive a monthly statement which you pay by direct debit or bank transfer. Some cards give you up to 51 days interest-free, while others require payment within 14–21 days. Paying on time helps avoid late fees and keeps your credit healthy.

Tips to save more with your fuel card

New Zealanders can save money on fuel using several popular apps, especially the Gaspy app, which shows the cheapest fuel prices in your area using real-time, crowd-sourced updates. When you combine Gaspy with a fuel card, you get both the lowest pump price and your card’s cents-per-litre discount on top, which can stack up to serious savings over a year.

Other ways to get the most from your card include:

• Stick to partner sites – Discounts are usually bigger when you fuel at the stations linked to your card’s main network.
• Monitor usage – Check your reports regularly to spot unusual spend, like multiple fills in one day.
• Limit extras – Set cards to fuel-only if you don’t want drivers buying snacks or drinks on company spend.
• Take advantage of promos – New cardholders in NZ often get higher discounts for the first 3–6 months, so make sure you’re aware of the end date.

Looking for a fuel card in New Zealand?

Start with our Fuel Card Eligibility Check to see which card fits your routes and how much you could save.

FAQs

Can I use a fuel card for personal vehicles in NZ?

Yes. Many providers accept sole traders and small operators, so you can use a fuel card even if it’s just for your own car or ute. If you’re mixing personal and business fuel on the same card, make sure you keep records so you can separate the costs at tax time.

Which fuel cards are most popular in New Zealand?

The most widely used cards are CardSmart, BP Fuelcard, NZ Fuel Cards, Z Business Plus and Driveline. CardSmart is popular for its large multi-brand network, while BP and Z are strong single-brand options with clear cents-per-litre savings. NZ Fuel Cards and Driveline stand out for offering some of the highest everyday discounts across multiple brands.

Do fuel cards work everywhere in NZ?

Not quite. Coverage depends on the card you choose. Multi-brand cards like CardSmart, NZ Fuel Cards and Driveline work at hundreds of stations across Mobil, BP, Z, Caltex, Challenge, NPD and Waitomo, so they cover most of the country. Single-brand cards like BP Fuelcard or Z Business Plus are limited to their own networks but usually give bigger discounts or rewards. If you travel through rural areas, it’s worth checking which stations are on your provider’s network before you sign up.

Are there fees for NZ fuel cards?

Yes. Most fuel cards in New Zealand charge a small monthly fee per card. Some may waive fees for the first few months as a promo. A few cards also add small transaction fees if you fuel outside their preferred network/ It’s best to check both the monthly card fee and any extra surcharges so you know the true cost of running the card.