Contact and bp charge partner for EV charging discounts

Contact Energy and bp charge have announced a partnership offering Contact residential customers discounts of up to 70% on electric vehicle (EV) charging during peak hours at more than 200 bp charge points across New Zealand.

From 1 September 2025, eligible Contact customers will receive the discount during morning (7am to 9am) and evening (4pm to 6pm) periods. The partnership also includes a free bp charge subscription valued at $10 per month, providing a 10% discount on charging at any time.

The initiative comes as demand for public EV charging continues to grow. Research from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) shows a 55% increase in the number of EV drivers using public chargers in recent years.

However, the EECA findings reveal ongoing challenges, with two in five EV owners believing there still are not enough public chargers on routes they travel. One in five EV drivers experience range anxiety – the fear of running out of charge before reaching their destination.

Contact chief retail officer Carolyn Luey says convenience and cost are key barriers to EV adoption.

“Our partnership with bp charge addresses those concerns by offering fast, accessible charging at familiar locations throughout the country. Competitive pricing also makes it easier for more New Zealanders to make the switch to electric,” Luey says.

“Contact is committed to supporting customers as they electrify their homes and daily lives, while promoting more efficient energy use that helps maintain a reliable energy supply.”

bp charge general manager Antoine Denis says this is the first subscription offer of its kind for bp charge.

“We want to keep Kiwi drivers moving by supporting those who have already made the switch to electric, while making EVs a more attractive choice for tomorrow,” Denis says.

“Our fast, reliable and convenient EV chargers are located at bp sites where EV drivers need them the most, whether that’s in the city or on main highways, ensuring we’re supporting our customers on the go.”

Eligible Contact customers can sign up for the offer at Contact.co.nz/bpcharge from Monday 1 September.