If you drive in New Zealand, Road User Charges (RUC) are part of keeping our roads running. But the rules are changing — and it’s worth knowing where you stand right now, and what’s coming next.
Who Pays RUC Today (as of Oct 2025):
Diesel & heavy vehicles — pay RUC now.
Electric vehicles (EVs) — paying RUC since 1 April 2024 at $76 per 1,000 km + admin fee.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) — paying since 1 April 2024 at a reduced $38 per 1,000 km + admin fee (because they also pay petrol excise).
Non-plug-in petrol vehicles and standard petrol hybrids — still pay fuel excise at the pump, not RUC (yet).
What’s Changing by 2027:
New Zealand is moving toward electronic RUC for all light vehicles, including petrol cars, while phasing out fuel excise. Legislation is targeted for 2026, with rollout expected from 2027. Planning your system now means the change will be smooth.
If you’re a business or fleet operator, you can read more on how this affects you in our Business & Fleets update
Quick Tips to Stay Compliant:
Know your rate & category. Check NZTA’s current RUC tables before buying distance.
Buy RUC online. Set a reminder to top up before it runs out — avoid fines or delays.
Keep tidy records. Track odometer readings and licences; it protects you if you’re checked and helps reconcile costs.
Learn more about the bigger policy shift in our Government Announcement section or see how RUCSmart is making this easier under RUCSmart Insights.
The Bottom Line:
EVs and PHEVs are already under the RUC system. Petrol cars are next. Get your process right now — rates, reminders, records — so the 2027 shift is simple and stress-free.
The RUC system is evolving — and we’re building tools to make it smarter, simpler, and stress-free.
Be part of the change
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