ChargeNet, Aotearoa New Zealand’s nationwide EV charging network, is flicking the switch to turn on New Zealand’s largest-ever EV charging hub at Tauranga Crossing in Tauranga today. 

The $1.8 million charging hub can charge up to 10 vehicles at one time – more than any other charging hub in New Zealand – and can add up to 300km of range within 20 minutes – enough to power most EV journeys to Auckland or to Hamilton and back. The hub is designed to meet the growing demand for EV charging with its installed charging capacity. 

ChargeNet CEO Danusia Wypych says that Tauranga Crossing is a destination where every part of life intersects, making it a critical location for charging infrastructure.

“Our data show that the new charging hub is ideally positioned to support charging demand and meet our customer’s needs, offering fast and convenient charging alongside amenities for drivers on the go. Tauranga Crossing is a point of convergence for the Bay of Plenty, hosting approximately 26,000 vehicles per day on average. This strategic location is expected to significantly enhance charging accessibility, especially given it provides two “pull-through” charging bays that provide access to electric vehicles towing trailers, campervans, and small electric trucks,” she says. 

Danusia Wypych says as well as EVs being fun to drive, that the electrification of light transport remains the most effective way to rapidly cut emissions, and demand will continue to grow. Recent market research by Vector indicates that nearly half of the respondents are still considering purchasing an EV or electric hybrid within the next two years, even after the removal of EV subsidies.

“The Government’s goal to build 10,000 public electric vehicle fast chargers by 2030 is the most tangible action they’ve made to meet our decarbonisation goals. EV sales in New Zealand have moved beyond the tipping point at which uptake is exponential. A temporary slow-down in EV sales from recent changes in policy direction was predicted and will be short-term. It has been a tough year for many New Zealanders and businesses, but market research shows many still have their eye on how they can take advantage of an EV in their day-to-day life. 

“Building such significant capability at Tauranga Crossing reflects the fact that EVs continue to be an attractive proposition for all New Zealand drivers, from an economic perspective as well as reduced emissions. By providing more ChargeNet chargers at locations where drivers need them, we’re building confidence in the network for everyday EV drivers and helping to get more Kiwi drivers into EVs by building their trust that the EV-charging network can support them,” says Danusia Wypych.

The challenge, says Danusia Wypych, is for public charging infrastructure to support the increasing uptake of EVs.