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".