The Kora Fuel Card gives you a flat 10c per litre discount at Mobil and Waitomo. In this review, we cover how it works, who it’s best for, where it falls short, and how it compares to broader options like CardSmart.
If you’re looking to save on fuel without joining a loyalty program or running a business, the Kora Fuel Card offers a straightforward solution. You get 10 cents off per litre at Mobil and Waitomo, with no joining fee, no cap, and no minimum spend. But like any product, it won’t suit everyone. In this review, we’ll break down how Kora works, what it costs, who it’s best for, and where it might fall short.
We’ll also look at how it compares to alternatives like CardSmart, especially for drivers who want more flexibility.
What is the Kora Fuel Card?
Kora is a relatively new New Zealand-owned fuel card designed for individuals, families, and small businesses. You don’t need an ABN or a fleet. You just sign up online, get your cards in the mail, and start saving on fuel at Mobil and Waitomo stations. You’ll receive two cards – one for each network – and can use them at over 300 stations across the country.
Tip: According to Kora, they will be expanding their provider network in the near future.
Where Can You Use the Kora Fuel Card?
Kora is accepted only at Mobil and Waitomo stations. This includes both urban and regional sites, but it’s worth checking your local area before signing up.
If you tend to stick to these brands, it’s a simple, no-fuss way to save. But if you regularly fill up at BP, Z, Caltex, or 7-Eleven, you won’t be able to use the Kora fuel card there.
If you need access to multiple brands, CardSmart gives you wider network coverage, including BP, Mobil, Z, Gull, GAS, and Challenge. It’s a better fit for drivers who travel widely or share vehicles across teams.
Tip: Some NPD and Allied sites can be used with your Kora Mobilcard. Kora has an online map that will show you sites where the Kora Mobilcard is accepted to provide convenience for you – but they don’t have a discount e.g. some Caltex, Z, G.A.S, or BP sites.
Kora Fuel Card Key Features
| Feature | Kora Fuel Card |
| Fuel Discount | 10c per litre at Mobil and Waitomo |
| Monthly Fee | $2 |
| Station Access | 300+ locations nationwide (Mobil and Waitomo only) |
| Eligibility | Open to individuals and businesses; no ABN required |
| Payment Options | Weekly, fortnightly, or monthly via direct debit or credit card |
| App Support | Yes – view usage, savings, invoices, and station finder |
How Much Can You Save with a Kora Fuel Card?
Example scenario:
You fill up a 50L tank once a week.
- 50L × $0.10 = $5 saved per fill
- $5 × 4 = $20 saved per month
- Subtract $2 membership = $18 net savings
That’s decent value if you use it regularly, but for low-mileage drivers or people using other brands, it may not add up.
Kora Fuel Card Pros and Cons
What Kora Does Well
- Flat, reliable savings – 10c off per litre, no expiry or spend limits
- Simple setup – Apply online in minutes; get cards in the mail
- No ABN needed – Anyone can join
- Useful app – Helps you track usage and find fuel stations
- Transparent billing – Clear invoices, easy to manage
Things to Consider
- Limited network – Only works at Mobil and Waitomo
- Not ideal for occasional drivers – If you fill up less than once a month, the $2 fee could outweigh the savings
- Not suited for trucking or heavy commercial – Feedback suggests the card isn’t optimised for large vehicle use
- Two cards to manage – One for each brand, which might be a minor annoyance
How it Compares: Kora vs CardSmart
If you’re weighing up whether to go with Kora or opt for a CardSmart solution, here’s how they stack up based on key features.
When Kora Makes Sense
- You want a fixed and guaranteed 10¢ per litre discount at Mobil and Waitomo.
- You are looking for a low-commitment option, no ABN or business setup required.
- You want fuel savings with minimal fuss and predictable billing.
When CardSmart Flex is a Better Fit
- You’d prefer national coverage, not tied to just one fuel brand.
- You want to save up to 12c/l when you fill up
- You want to use the card at many major stations – more flexibility overall.
- You want zero monthly card fees while still accessing fuel discounts.
- You’re an individual, sole trader, or family managing fuel across one or more vehicles.
When Standard CardSmart (Business) Works Best
- You’re an ABN-registered business or managing a team/fleet.
- You need discounts across multiple brands (petrol, diesel, other services).
- You want a full admin portal, detailed spend control, and partner services (tyres, cab, rental etc.).
- You want interest-free billing cycles and consolidated, IRD-compliant invoices.
Bottom Line
Kora Fuel Card offers simple, reliable savings if you’re happy to stay inside the Mobil/Waitomo network. It’s ideal for personal users and low-usage sole traders.
CardSmart Flex offers broader fuel access for individuals and sole traders, with no card fees and flexible use.
CardSmart business‑grade cards deliver full network access, multi-brand discounts, and admin tools – perfect if you’re running a small business fleet or need spend control features.
What Kora Fuel Card Customers Say
Kora scores 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot, with users praising:
- Straightforward setup
- Friendly customer service
- Clear savings visible on invoices
- A helpful app for tracking and locating stations
Complaints are mostly about network limits or managing two cards.
Should You Get the Kora Fuel Card?
It depends on how and where you drive.
Get it if:
- You regularly fill up at Mobil or Waitomo
- You want predictable savings without jumping through hoops
- You’re looking for a personal-use fuel card with no ABN required
- You don’t need brand flexibility or extras like rewards programs
Skip it if:
- You mostly use BP, Z, or other brands
- You want one card for multiple networks
- You prefer earning loyalty points (like Flybuys or Airpoints)
- You only fill up once every few weeks and may not cover the monthly fee
CardSmart might suit you better if you’re a business managing more than one vehicle, want customised discounts and pricing based on your fleet, or want to access a wider range of stations and spend controls.
How to Apply for a Kora Fuel Card
Signing up
Getting started with Kora is simple and takes less than 10 minutes. You can apply online by filling in a few basic details – no ABN or business registration needed. Once your application is approved, Kora will send you two fuel cards by mail: one for Mobil and one for Waitomo.
Receiving your cards
You’ll usually receive your Kora cards within 3 to 5 business days. There’s no joining fee, and the $2 monthly account fee is often covered by your first fill-up (you only need to buy 20 litres of fuel to break even).
Using your cards
Swipe your card at the pump or counter at any participating Mobil or Waitomo station and your 10c per litre discount will be applied automatically. There’s no limit to how often you can use your cards or how many litres you can save on.
Kora recommends keeping your cards in your car or wallet so you always have them on hand. If you need extra cards for another vehicle or family member, you can request more at no extra cost.
Paying your account
Kora works more like a home utility account than a prepaid card. You fill up now and pay later – either weekly, fortnightly or monthly – based on what suits you. Payments can be made by direct debit (no fee) or by credit card (a small merchant fee applies).
Many users choose direct debit for simplicity, but if your credit card earns rewards, you might prefer that instead.
Tracking your savings
Kora’s online dashboard and mobile app let you:
- View recent transactions
- Download invoices
- Track how much you’ve saved
- Find the nearest Mobil or Waitomo station
Everything is designed to be low-hassle and easy to manage from your phone or computer.
Explore Your Fuel Card Option
Kora Fuel Card keeps things simple. No loyalty points, no joining fee, and no brand confusion, as long as you’re a Mobil or Waitomo user.
But like any card, it only makes sense if it fits your refuelling habits. If you need more flexibility or a card that spans brands, CardSmart offers broader coverage and more tools for business use.
In the end, it comes down to what you value most: set-and-forget savings or multi-brand access and control.
Looking for a fuel card? Check your eligibility here
FAQs
Can I use the Kora Fuel Card at unmanned or self-serve stations?
Yes. As long as it’s a participating Mobil or Waitomo site, the card works at self-serve pumps. Just make sure the card reader accepts fuel cards.
Can you use your Kora fuel card for in-store items?
No, the Kora card is just for paying for fuel.
Does Kora offer fuel discounts on LPG or EV charging?
No. The discount applies to petrol and diesel only. Kora doesn’t currently offer benefits for LPG users or electric vehicle charging stations.
Do I need to top up my Kora Fuel Card with money before use?
No. It’s not a prepaid card. You use the card to fill up, then get billed on your selected payment cycle.
Can I cancel my Kora membership at any time?
Yes. There’s no lock-in contract. If the card no longer suits your needs, you can cancel it by contacting Kora’s customer support.
Is there a limit to how much I can save per month?
No. There are no caps on usage. The 10c per litre discount applies to every fill, no matter how often you use the card.
Does Kora support integration with accounting software like Xero?
Not currently. Kora provides downloadable invoices and summaries via its app or dashboard, but it doesn’t directly integrate with accounting platforms.
Can I get more than two cards under one account?
Kora automatically provides one card for Mobil and one for Waitomo. If you need extra cards for multiple drivers or vehicles, you’ll need to contact their support team to discuss account options.
How long does it take to receive my cards after signing up?
Most users receive their cards within 3 to 5 business days after approval. Delivery times may vary based on location.
Can I use my Kora card in combination with supermarket dockets or app-based fuel discounts?
No. Kora replaces those deals with a flat 10c off per litre – you can’t stack discounts or loyalty rewards from other offers at the same time.
*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.
Aug 06, 2025
Compare Fuel Cards NZ Team
Last updated Aug 06, 2025