Fuel prices are just out of control, they were crazy before Russia’s meddling and despite a little Jacinda fuel tax relief, through taking some of the tax off, some of the already overly taxed fuel prices. (Strangely the week after the current government dropped below their rivals in the popularity poll).
It has now got to the stage for some whether it be the trip to school, or lunch when the kids get there. The choice of filling the car or feeding the family are some of the decisions having to be made by some families right now.
Families across NZ are struggling to make ends meet as the cost of fuel and living rises to unseen levels, there tough calls being made over the basics.
I don’t want to sound heartless, when we hear of these cases – but for those who do have a boat (and a job) and still want to get out on the water, the price of fuel is now limiting or stopping their opportunity to do so.
This is additionally painful when you consider the cost per litre for the fuel is almost made up of close to 50% in taxes. Then add ‘salt in the wound’, when you think some of these taxes are road taxes – tell me how the boaties, especially those on marinas are going to benefit from their paid road tax portion, for fuel being purchased and 100% burnt on the water.
At a time where our travel restrictions are limited though Covid – boating is one of the few ‘feel good’ experiences many of us have. The industry has battled through many hard times and now when things are looking on an up for the industry in general (with some delivery dates for a new boat hour two to three years) – boaties and the marine industry are currently being penalised by these crippling fuel prices.
Buckle in fellow boaties – pain at the pump will not be easing anytime soon from what I have heard, the increased price for fuels will also have the additional result of, the price of almost everything increasing, though the additional cost to produce almost everything – products and services.
Oh well, got that off my chest – to be fair, we do live in one of the most beautiful country’s with the most fantastic waterways and plenty of freedom – so for now I guess, we must suck it up and hope for some further relief along the way….. life could be a whole lot worse as we are seeing with ‘conflicts ‘overseas.
We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show.
