KEY POINTS:
Petrol and diesel prices dropped 5c a litre yesterday, to their lowest levels since January.
Shell led the field with a 4c cut in the morning, which was followed by a 5c reduction at BP stations, which all oil companies ended up matching.
That meant 91-octane petrol was selling last night at most main-centre pumps for 138.9c a litre, 95-octane for 143.9c, and diesel for 98.9c.
These prices represented the first decreases since the end of September. Shell spokeswoman Jackie Maitland said it was because of cheaper international oil prices and a stronger New Zealand dollar.
Crude oil prices have fallen to US$58 ($86.48) a barrel from a peak of US$78.40 ($116.90) in July. It is the biggest drop since the 1991 Gulf War, and the NZ currency has risen 10 per cent since June.
AA spokesman Mike Noon said it would be particularly heartening for industry that diesel was back below $1 a litre for the first time since January, but he urged motorists not to turn their backs on fuel-saving driving techniques forced by petrol prices that soared to 176.9c for 91-octane.
At the same time as helping the global campaign to combat climate change, motorists could help themselves to fuel savings and enjoy safer and more relaxed driving by keeping a light tread on their accelerator pedals.
"We should be using energy smarter, so it's not about denying everyone's right to mobility," he said.
"Depending on how heavy their right foot is, drivers can save up to 30 per cent, rather than producing more carbon emissions and needing more repairs and maintenance."
The lower fuel prices are not deterring Green Party MP Keith Locke from laying on a free bus for four hours in Auckland today to promote better public transport as a key contributor to the fight against global warming.
In anticipation of the International Day of Action on Climate Change tomorrow, it will run from 10am today on a loop route between Britomart and Karangahape Rd, via Queen St, Pitt St, Greys Ave and Mayoral Drive.
