Gull to open new unmanned fuel station in Waipukurau

The new unmanned Gull service station being built in Waipukurau is scheduled to be open by Christmas. Photo/Nicki Harper

Gull New Zealand says a new drive-through service station being built in Waipukurau will increase competition and prompt lower petrol prices for Central Hawke's Bay consumers.

Construction of the automated, unmanned 24/7 service station on the corner of Peel St and Herbert St, a site formerly owned by McDonalds, began last month and all going well would be completed by Christmas, said Gull retail development manager Karl Michewski.

He said the site would be similar to the Gull station on Karamu Rd in Hastings, and would have three dispensers offering all fuel grades - 91, 98 and diesel.

Judging by past experience in other locations around the country, the new addition to the district, would bring competition and lead to cheaper fuel at all outlets, Mr Michewski said.

Currently, there was a Caltex and Mobil service station in Waipukurau and a BP in Waipawa, and he said all consumers would benefit with the likelihood of lower prices across the board thanks to the "Gull effect".

This was a term coined by the New Zealand Automobile Association (AA) in 2013 in response to a localised price drop trend across competitors following Gull's introduction into a new location.

Although the addition to the community would not mean the creation of any new jobs, Mr Michewski said that research in Pukekohe after a new Gull station was opened there showed consumers saved about $130 a year as a result of the price drops.

"Everybody will benefit."

There had been opportunities for employment during the construction phase with local subcontractors being involved in the project, although the primary contractor was from out of town, he said.

"While those workers are in town though they are spending money on accommodation and food, and we are looking at employing some local people for six weeks when it opens to show people how to use the fuel pumps."

Feedback from consumers had shown that people enjoyed the convenience and speed of using the unmanned stations, he added.

In July this year fuel retailer Caltex Australia took over New Zealand-owned Gull, in a deal worth $325 million.