The best thing about driving 2,200 km on this EV holiday: Not having to worry where to charge

A recent 18-day trip across New Zealand’s North Island in a Hyundai Ioniq 5 showcased the practical ease of long-distance electric vehicle (EV) travel in the country. Covering over 2,200 kilometres, the journey highlighted the convenience of New Zealand’s extensive and accessible charging infrastructure. Unlike previous experiences in other countries, the driver rarely had to worry about locating chargers, as they were abundant in nearly every town, providing a seamless and stress-free driving experience even in regional areas. New Zealand’s early adoption of EVs, particularly the Nissan Leaf, has left a legacy of widespread charging options compatible with various plug types, including CHAdeMo and CCS. This diversity meant that during the trip, the driver even shared a charger with a Leaf for the first time in seven years of EV driving. Despite a few minor issues, such as encountering a malfunctioning Tritium charger, alternative stations were readily available, underscoring the robustness of the country’s charging network. The relatively low cost of fast charging, averaging 80 to 85 cents per kilowatt-hour, also contrasted favourably with soaring petrol prices, making EV travel economically attractive. The ownership and structure of New Zealand’s charging network differ markedly from Australia’s, where Tesla dominates the market. In New Zealand, multiple operators provide a variety of options, reducing reliance on any single provider. The government has recognised the importance of expanding this infrastructure further, pledging to double the number of EV chargers, particularly to support urban residents without home charging facilities. This commitment comes after a recent surge in EV sales driven partly by global fossil fuel supply disruptions, signalling a positive outlook for EV adoption in the country. Cost efficiency was a notable aspect of the trip, with the total electricity expense for charging the Ioniq 5 amounting to just under NZ$240. This compares favourably to the significantly higher cost of fuel for a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle, which would have exceeded NZ$400 at the time of travel and has since increased further. Additionally, the Ioniq 5’s vehicle-to-load capability proved advantageous during camping stops, allowing the car to power external devices, a feature increasingly common in modern EVs but still rare in internal combustion vehicles. Overall, the experience underscores New Zealand’s position as a leader in EV infrastructure and user experience, particularly for long-distance travel. The country’s combination of widespread chargers, competitive pricing, and government support creates a compelling environment for EV drivers. As infrastructure continues to improve and EV technology advances, New Zealand is set to become an even more attractive destination for electric vehicle holidays and everyday driving alike.