BP Charge grows national EV fast charger network

New EV fast charging hubs are opening at BP Connect Tirau and BP Connect Wanaka.

The sites include 10 150kW charge points and six respectively, co-funded by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) through its Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF).

They join BP Charge’s operational hubs in Auckland at Hobsonville, Rosedale and Smales Farm.

“BP Charge is on a journey to create New Zealand’s most convenient EV fast-charging network,” says BP New Zealand country head Haley Mahoney.

“BP Connect Wanaka is our first hub site with EV charging in Central Otago and BP Connect Tirau has a drive-through suitable for larger vehicles, making charging on-the-go a breeze.”

Wildbean cafe coffee, food and a comfortable place to take a break from a drive are also provided at the BP service centres, says Mahoney.

More charging hubs are planned at seven other BP sites next year – in Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Manawatu and Otago.

EECA delivery and partnerships group manager Richard Briggs says partnering with companies like BP on public EV infrastructure projects generates insights that benefit the wider sector.

Since starting in late 2022 BP Charge has installed fast EV chargers at more than 60 sites across New Zealand and plans to install the country’s first EV “Gigahub” in Christchurch later this year.