EV network hits milestone

Meridian has reached a landmark with 500 of its EV charging facilities now available across New Zealand. 

“From city centres to regional routes, these charge points are helping more Kiwis drive electric, travel further and experience less range anxiety,” says Richard Sandford, head of energy. “It’s an exciting step in our commitment to roll out a further 900 public charge points through to 2030.”

Meridian has opened 120 since November 1, such as in Cromwell, pictured, as well as 18 during May at locations including Roxburgh, Haast, Mossburn, Dunedin South, Oamaru, Culverden, Rakaia, Rangiora, Punakaiki and Tokoroa.

“We want to build New Zealand’s largest EV charging network and we’re well on the way,” adds Sandford. “We’ve been focused on filling the gaps across the network and over the past 12 months we have made massive improvements to the South Island. 

“We are now looking towards the central and upper North Island as we continue to build a connected and cohesive national network.”

Potential North Island locations have been already identified in Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Auckland and Northland, while extra Mainland sites are also planned.

New Zealand currently has about 80 EVs per charge point while the global average is 11. As interest in electric cars grows and the public-charging network expands, Sandford says EV drivers are enjoying faster and more efficient journeys.

He adds the ongoing uncertainty around global fuel supplies has sharpened public awareness of fuel security and has increased interest in electric vehicles. 

The latest data from Meridian’s network points to a surge of interest pushed along by the Iran conflict, with 75 per cent growth in weekly users and around 70 per cent growth in weekly app registrations since December 2025.