Engine Fuel Specifications Regulations 2011

Reprint as at 2 October 2017

Coat of Arms of New Zealand

Engine Fuel Specifications Regulations 2011

(SR 2011/352)

Jerry Mateparae, Governor-General

Order in Council

At Wellington this 3rd day of October 2011

Present:
His Excellency the Governor-General in Council

Note

Changes authorised by subpart 2 of Part 2 of the Legislation Act 2012 have been made in this official reprint.

Note 4 at the end of this reprint provides a list of the amendments incorporated.

These regulations are administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.

Pursuant to section 35 of the Energy (Fuels, Levies, and References) Act 1989, His Excellency the Governor-General, acting on the advice and with the consent of the Executive Council, makes the following regulations.

Contents

1Title
2Commencement
Part 1
Preliminary
3Outline
4Application of regulations
5Interpretation
Part 2
Retail sales
6Application of Part
7Requirements relating to petrol sold by retail sale
8Requirements relating to petrol/ethanol blends sold by retail sale
8ARequirements relating to petrol/methanol blends sold by retail sale
8BRequirements relating to fuel ethanol E85 sold by retail sale
9Requirements relating to diesel sold by retail sale
10Biodiesel component of diesel/biodiesel blends sold by retail sale
11Engine fuel sold by retail sale that is advertised with superior or additional properties
Part 3
Non-retail sales
12Application of Part
13Requirements relating to petrol sold by non-retail sale
14Requirements relating to petrol/ethanol blends sold by non-retail sale
14ARequirements relating to petrol/methanol blends sold by non-retail sale
14BRequirements relating to fuel ethanol E85 sold by non-retail sale
15Requirements relating to diesel sold by non-retail sale
16Requirements relating to biodiesel sold by non-retail sale
17Requirements relating to diesel/biodiesel blends sold by non-retail sale
Part 4
General provisions
18Labelling requirements relating to retail containers and engine fuel pumps
19Calculating pool averages
20Sampling of engine fuel
21Accreditation
22Offences
23Revocation
Schedule 1
Requirements for petrol
Schedule 1A
Requirements for fuel ethanol E85
Schedule 2
Requirements for diesel
Schedule 3
Requirements for biodiesel
Schedule 4
Requirements for denatured ethanol for blending
Gazette Information
Reprint notes

Regulations

1 Title

These regulations are the Engine Fuel Specifications Regulations 2011.

2 Commencement

These regulations come into force on 1 December 2011.

Part 1 Preliminary

3 Outline

(1)

These regulations prescribe different specifications for certain types of engine fuel that is supplied, or available or intended for supply, according to—

(a)

the type of engine fuel; and

(b)

whether the supply is, or is intended to be, by way of retail sale or not.

(2)

These regulations also contain general provisions relating to matters such as labelling, sampling, and offences.

(3)

This regulation is only a guide to the general scheme and effect of these regulations.

4 Application of regulations

These regulations apply to all petrol, diesel, biodiesel, and ethanol, and blends of these, that are supplied, or available or intended for supply, for use in an internal combustion engine, other than—

(a)

as an aviation fuel; or

(b)

for motor vehicle racing; or

(c)

for powerboat racing; or

(d)

as a fuel for jet boats.

5 Interpretation

(1)

In these regulations, unless the context otherwise requires,—

additive means a substance added to fuel in trace or small quantities in order to bring about specific benefits

Auckland and Northland means the area contained within the Auckland Council and Northland Regional Council boundaries

autumn means, in Schedule 1, 1 April to 31 May (inclusive)

biodiesel means fatty acid methyl esters, whether or not containing additives, intended for use as a fuel in compression-ignition internal combustion engines, at 100% concentration or as a blending component with diesel

biofuel means any gaseous or liquid fuel produced from biomass that can be used as a fuel for engines

diesel—

(a)

means a refined petroleum distillate, or other liquid hydrocarbon fuel, having a viscosity and distillation range that is intermediate between those of kerosene and light lubricating oil, whether or not it contains additives, and that is intended for use as fuel in compression-ignition internal combustion engines; and

(b)

includes diesel containing up to 5% biodiesel by volume

DVPE means dry vapour pressure equivalent

engine fuel means any gaseous or liquid fuel that can be used as a fuel for engines, and includes biofuel, diesel, petrol, synthetic fuel, and blends of these

ethanol means ethyl alcohol or the chemical component C2H5OH, whether or not it contains additives, intended for blending with petrol for use as a fuel in spark-ignition internal combustion engines

fuel ethanol E85 means a blend of petrol and ethanol, containing not less than 70% ethanol by volume and not more than 85% ethanol by volume, intended for use in dedicated E85 spark-ignition internal combustion engines

marine use means the use or intended use of diesel on a boat or ship

methanol means methyl alcohol or the chemical component CH3OH, whether or not it contains additives, intended for blending with petrol for use as a fuel in spark-ignition internal combustion engines

methyl tertiary butyl ether means an organic compound with the chemical component (CH3)3COCH3 intended for blending with petrol for use as a fuel in spark-ignition internal combustion engines

oxygenate means an organic compound that contains oxygen (for example, an alcohol or an ether)

petrol—

(a)

means a refined petroleum distillate, or other liquid hydrocarbon fuel, normally boiling within the limits of 15°C to 220°C, whether or not it contains additives, that is intended for use as a fuel in spark-ignition internal combustion engines; and

(b)

includes petrol containing up to 10% ethanol by volume

petroleum has the same meaning as it has in section 2(1) of the Crown Minerals Act 1991

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon means the total aromatic hydrocarbon content of the engine fuel less the mono-aromatic content, both as determined by the prescribed test method IP 391 (as referred to in the third column of Schedule 2)

pool average is determined in accordance with regulation 19

premium grade petrol means petrol supplied as having a research octane number of 95.0 or higher

regular grade petrol means petrol supplied as having a research octane number of at least 91.0 but less than 95.0

retail sale means a sale to an end user who has no written supply agreement or written contract with the supplier in respect of the sale; and non-retail sale has an opposite meaning

Secretary has the same meaning as it has in section 1B of the Energy (Fuels, Levies, and References) Act 1989

spring means, in Schedule 1, 1 September to 30 November (inclusive)

summer means,—

(a)

in Schedule 1, 1 December to 31 March (inclusive); and

(b)

in Schedule 2, 15 October to 14 April (inclusive)

total oxygen, in relation to a fuel, means the sum (expressed as weight percentage oxygen in the fuel) of the oxygen contribution from all of the individual oxygenates that are blended in the fuel

winter means,—

(a)

in Schedule 1, 1 June to 31 August (inclusive); and

(b)

in Schedule 2, 15 April to 14 October (inclusive).

(2)

In these regulations, a reference to a test method with an acronym listed in the left-hand column in the following table means a standard, or a test method related to an organisation, that is listed opposite the relevant acronym in the right-hand column of that table:

Test method

Standard or organisation

ASTM

ASTM International, which replaced the American Society for Testing and Materials

BS

British Standard

EN

European Standard

IP

Energy Institute, which replaced the Institute of Petroleum, London

ISO

International Organization for Standardization

(3)

In these regulations, the letter D and a series of numerals, or a series of numerals immediately following a test method referred to in subclause (2), means the latest version of the document identified by that serial number.

(4)

If a test method prescribed in these regulations provides for alternative methods, each of the alternative methods has equal standing, and any of those methods may be used.

Regulation 5(1) DVPE: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) fuel ethanol E85: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) methanol: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) methyl tertiary butyl ether: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) other oxygenates: revoked, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(2) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) oxygenate: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) oxygenates: revoked, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(2) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 5(1) total oxygen: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 4(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Part 2 Retail sales

6 Application of Part

This Part applies to all engine fuel referred to in regulation 4 that is supplied, or available or intended for supply, by way of retail sale.

7 Requirements relating to petrol sold by retail sale

Petrol must—

(a)

be fit for common purposes; and

(b)

have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 1 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

8 Requirements relating to petrol/ethanol blends sold by retail sale

(1)

This regulation applies to petrol that is blended with ethanol.

(2)

The petrol must contain a corrosion inhibitor.

(3)

The ethanol component of the petrol—

(a)

must be no greater than the maximum percentage by volume set out in Schedule 1; and

(b)

must contain denaturant, which must be unleaded petrol with the following characteristics:

(i)

end point as required by Schedule 1; and

(ii)

sulphur as required by Schedule 1; and

(iii)

appearance as required by Schedule 4; and

(c)

must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 4 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

Regulation 8: replaced, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 5 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

8A Requirements relating to petrol/methanol blends sold by retail sale

(1)

This regulation applies to petrol that is blended with methanol.

(2)

The petrol must contain a corrosion inhibitor and a co-solvent (such as ethanol).

(3)

The methanol component must be no greater than the maximum percentage by volume set out in Schedule 1.

Regulation 8A: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 5 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

8B Requirements relating to fuel ethanol E85 sold by retail sale

(1)

The petrol component of fuel ethanol E85 must conform to the limits in Schedule 1 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

(2)

Fuel ethanol E85 must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 1A when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

Regulation 8B: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 5 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

9 Requirements relating to diesel sold by retail sale

Diesel must—

(a)

be fit for common purposes; and

(b)

have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 2 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

10 Biodiesel component of diesel/biodiesel blends sold by retail sale

The biodiesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 3 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule except that—

(a)

the maximum viscosity at 40ºC is 6.0 mm2 per second; and

(b)

the minimum cetane number is 47; and

(c)

the minimum oxidation stability is 10.0 hours.

11 Engine fuel sold by retail sale that is advertised with superior or additional properties

Engine fuel that is advertised as having properties that are superior or in addition to the regulated limits must conform to those advertised properties when tested by the test methods specified in the schedules or, in the case of an additional property, by a suitable and recognised international method.

Part 3 Non-retail sales

12 Application of Part

This Part applies to all engine fuel referred to in regulation 4 that is supplied, or available or intended for supply, by way of non-retail sale.

13 Requirements relating to petrol sold by non-retail sale

Petrol must have properties in respect of vapour pressure, sulphur, lead, benzene, total aromatic compounds, total oxygen, olefins, manganese, and phosphorus that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 1 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

Regulation 13: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 6 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

14 Requirements relating to petrol/ethanol blends sold by non-retail sale

(1)

Any blend of petrol and ethanol must contain a corrosion inhibitor.

(2)

The petrol component of any blend of petrol and ethanol must conform with the requirements in regulation 13.

(3)

The ethanol component of any blend of petrol and ethanol must—

(a)

contain denaturant, which must be unleaded petrol with the following characteristics:

(i)

end point as required by Schedule 1; and

(ii)

sulphur as required by Schedule 1; and

(iii)

appearance as required by Schedule 4; and

(b)

have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 4 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

(4)

Fuel ethanol E85 is not required to comply with subclause (2) or (3)(a)(iii) or (b).

Regulation 14: replaced, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 7 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

14A Requirements relating to petrol/methanol blends sold by non-retail sale

(1)

The petrol component of any blend of petrol and methanol must conform with the requirements in regulation 13.

(2)

Any blend of petrol and methanol must contain a corrosion inhibitor and a co-solvent (such as ethanol).

Regulation 14A: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 7 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

14B Requirements relating to fuel ethanol E85 sold by non-retail sale

(1)

The petrol component of fuel ethanol E85 must have properties in respect of sulphur, lead, benzene, total aromatic compounds, total oxygen, olefins, manganese, and phosphorus that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 1 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

(2)

Fuel ethanol E85 must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 1A when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

Regulation 14B: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 7 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

15 Requirements relating to diesel sold by non-retail sale

(1)

Diesel must have properties in respect of sulphur and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 2 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

(2)

However, any diesel that is a blend of diesel and kerosene that has been blended for the purpose of improving the fuel’s performance in diesel engines in cold conditions may be supplied to an end user, and may have sulphur content that exceeds the 10 (mg/kg) limit specified in Schedule 2, provided that the following conditions are satisfied—

(a)

the sulphur content is no more than 500 (mg/kg) when tested by the methods specified in that schedule; and

(b)

the sulphur content of greater than 10 mg/kg is specifically provided for in the written supply agreement, or written contract in respect of the sale, between the supplier and the end user; and

(c)

the end user is specifically notified—

(i)

that the sulphur content of the diesel is higher than ordinarily required by these regulations; and

(ii)

of the potential vehicle and engine compatibility risks associated with using the diesel.

16 Requirements relating to biodiesel sold by non-retail sale

Biodiesel must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 3 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule.

17 Requirements relating to diesel/biodiesel blends sold by non-retail sale

(1)

The diesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel must conform with the requirements in regulation 15.

(2)

The biodiesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel must have properties that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 3 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule except that—

(a)

the maximum viscosity at 40ºC is 6.0 mm2 per second; and

(b)

the minimum cetane number is 47.

(3)

Any blend of diesel and biodiesel must—

(a)

have properties in respect of cetane number, total contamination, colour, sulphur, lubricity, viscosity, and flash point that conform to the limits specified in Schedule 2 when tested by the methods specified in that schedule; and

(b)

have an acid value maximum of 0.1 + X%/250 mg KOH/g when measured by ASTM D664 (where X is the percentage by volume of biodiesel in the blend); and

(c)

have a water content maximum of 200 + 3X% mg/kg when measured by IP 438 (where X is the percentage by volume of biodiesel in the blend).

Part 4 General provisions

18 Labelling requirements relating to retail containers and engine fuel pumps

(1)

Subclauses (2) to (4) apply to a dispensing pump or container used for delivering engine fuel by way of retail sale either into the consuming vehicle or into a container for subsequent use in an engine.

(2)

For petrol, the seller of the petrol must ensure that the dispensing pump or container is clearly marked with the grade designation, such as regular or premium, and with the minimum research octane number.

(3)

If petrol contains ethanol greater than 1% by volume, the seller of the petrol must ensure that the dispensing pump or container is clearly marked to display—

(a)

the maximum percentage by volume of ethanol that the petrol contains (which must be no greater than the limit set out in Schedule 1); and

(b)

the words “May not be suitable for all vehicles/engines. Check with the manufacturer before use.”

(3A)

If petrol contains methanol greater than 1% by volume, the seller of the petrol must ensure that the dispensing pump or container is clearly marked to display—

(a)

the maximum percentage by volume of methanol that the petrol contains (which must be no greater than the limit set out in Schedule 1); and

(b)

the words “May not be suitable for all vehicles/engines. Check with the manufacturer before use.”

(4)

For diesel, the dispensing pump or container must be clearly marked as “diesel”.

(4A)

For a blend of diesel and biodiesel containing more than 5% by volume biodiesel, the seller of the blend must ensure that the dispensing pump or container is clearly marked to display—

(a)

the maximum percentage by volume of fatty acid methyl esters that the blend contains (which must be no greater than the limit set out in Schedule 2); and

(b)

the words “May not be suitable for all vehicles/engines. Check with the manufacturer before use.”

(5)

In this regulation, clearly marked means having a label that is able to be easily seen by the person dispensing the engine fuel.

Regulation 18(3A): inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 8(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 18(4A): inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 8(2) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

19 Calculating pool averages

(1)

The pool averages specified in Schedule 1 for the purpose of the total aromatic compounds limit for petrol must be determined as set out in this regulation.

(2)

Pool averages must be calculated separately by each producer of petrol in New Zealand and by each petrol importer.

(3)

Monthly pool averages must be calculated based on,—

(a)

for petrol produced in New Zealand, batch fuel quality, as indicated on the certificate of quality, and quantity and date of completion of loading, as indicated on the bill of lading; and

(b)

for imported petrol, batch fuel quality, as indicated on the certificate of quality, and supplied quantity and date of completion of discharge into the first port storage at a New Zealand port, as indicated on the bill of lading or other appropriate documentation.

(4)

Each producer of petrol in New Zealand and each petrol importer must keep, for a period of not less than 3 years, records of the following with regard to total aromatic compounds that are regulated by pool averaging:

(a)

the relevant fuel quality, for each individual batch; and

(b)

the quantity of each individual batch, on a mass or volume basis as appropriate; and

(c)

the date of the batch, being either the date of completion of loading as referred to in subclause (3)(a) or the date of completion of discharge as referred to in subclause (3)(b); and

(d)

the monthly average, as calculated under subclause (6)(a) and (b); and

(e)

the monthly journal entry, as calculated under subclause (6)(c).

(5)

Each producer of petrol and each petrol importer must provide access in New Zealand to the records required to be kept under subclause (4) when requested, in writing, to do so by the responsible Minister of the Crown.

(6)

For total aromatic compounds in petrol, for each calendar month during the period that this regulation is in force, each producer of petrol in New Zealand and each petrol importer must separately calculate the average percentage of total aromatic compounds for each relevant grade of petrol produced or imported in that month as follows:

(a)

for each batch of regular grade petrol and each batch of premium grade petrol respectively produced or imported in the month, the average total aromatic compounds content of the batch (in litres per litre) is multiplied by the volume of the batch (in litres) to obtain the volume of total aromatic compounds (in litres) contained in the batch; and

(b)

the volume of total aromatic compounds calculated from all petrol batches of the relevant grade produced or imported in a month is added together and the total divided by the total volume of all the month’s batches to produce the monthly average total aromatic compounds content (in litres per litre) as follows:

n
Σ(Ai × Vi)
i = 1
monthly average =n
Σ(Vi)
i = 1

where—

Ai

is the average total aromatic compounds content for batch i in litres per litre

Vi

is the volume of batch i in litres

n

is the total number of batches in the month; and

(c)

the monthly average total aromatic compounds content is subtracted from the pool average maximum expressed in litres per litre, and the difference multiplied by the total volume of all the month’s batches of the relevant grade to produce the monthly journal entry as follows:

monthly journal entry=(pool average maximum − monthly average)×n
Σ(Vi)
i = 1

where—

Vi

is the volume of batch i in litres

n

is the total number of batches in the month.

(7)

In any period of 6 consecutive months, the sum of the monthly journal entries must not be a negative number.

(8)

[Revoked]

(9)

[Revoked]

Regulation 19(7): replaced, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 9 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 19(8): revoked, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 9 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Regulation 19(9): revoked, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 9 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

20 Sampling of engine fuel

(1)

The sampling requirements for obtaining a representative sample of engine fuel for testing by the test methods set out in these regulations are referred to in BS EN 228 and BS EN 590.

(2)

In the event of a dispute as to the appropriate value, nature, or rating of any of the properties listed in the schedules or referred to in these regulations, the relevant procedures specified in ISO 4259 must be used to interpret the laboratory results.

(3)

Any of the following persons may, in writing, request the Secretary to agree to the use of an alternative test method to any of those specified in the schedules:

(a)

an engine fuel importer; or

(b)

a wholesale supplier or retailer of engine fuel; or

(c)

a producer of engine fuel.

(4)

The Secretary may agree to such a request if satisfied that the alternative test method is at least as good as the test method specified in the schedules.

(5)

Any of the following persons must, if a person authorised in writing by the Secretary so requests, supply the authorised person with a certificate describing the properties and value of any such engine fuel (including, if asked, the properties and value of any blend of fuel or any blending component in a blended fuel or any additive) within 5 working days of receiving the request:

(a)

an engine fuel importer; or

(b)

a wholesale supplier or retailer of engine fuel; or

(c)

a producer of engine fuel.

21 Accreditation

A person authorised by the Secretary to take samples or to conduct testing of engine fuel for compliance with these regulations must, unless the person is an employee of the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment, be ISO 9001:2000 certified for engine fuel sampling or testing, or be accredited by International Accreditation New Zealand or by an overseas accreditation agency recognised under New Zealand’s mutual recognition arrangements.

Regulation 21: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 10 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

22 Offences

A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 who—

(a)

supplies, or makes available for supply, any engine fuel other than in accordance with regulations 7 to 19; or

(b)

fails to comply with a request made under regulation 20(5).

Regulation 22: amended, on 4 October 2013, by regulation 3(2) of the Criminal Procedure (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/409).

23 Revocation

The Engine Fuel Specifications Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/138) are revoked.

Schedule 1 Requirements for petrol

rr 7, 8, 8A(3), 8B(1), 13, 14, 14B(1), 18(3A), 19(1)

Schedule 1: replaced, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 11 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

PropertyLimitsTest method
Research octane number (RON)Regular grade fuel: 91.0 minimumASTM D2699
Premium grade fuel: 95.0 minimumASTM D2699
Motor octane number (MON)Regular grade fuel: 81.0 minimumASTM D2700
Premium grade fuel: 85.0 minimumASTM D2700
ColourNot to be mistaken for waterVisual
Percentage volume evaporated at 70°C (E70)22 minimum1
48 maximum2		ASTM D86
Percentage volume evaporated at 100°C (E100)45 minimum
70 maximum		ASTM D86
Percentage volume evaporated at 150°C (E150)75 minimumASTM D86
End point (°C)210 maximumASTM D86
Residue (% volume)2 maximumASTM D86
Flexible volatility index3 [DVPE (kPa) + (0.7 × E70)]115.0 maximumASTM D86 and ASTM D5191
Vapour Pressure4 (DVPE) (kPa)Maxima: Auckland and Northland: 65 kPa summer, 80 kPa autumn and spring, 90 kPa winter; rest of North Island: 70 kPa summer, 80 kPa autumn and spring, 90 kPa winter; South Island: 75 kPa summer, 85 kPa autumn and spring, 95 kPa winter ASTM D5191
Minimum: 45 kPa all year
Copper strip corrosion (3 hours at 50°C)Class 1 maximumASTM D130
Sulphur (mg/kg)Until close of 30 June 2018: 50 maximumIP 497 or ASTM D5453
From 1 July 2018: 10 maximum
Existent gum (solvent washed) (mg/100 mℓ)5 maximumASTM D381
Oxidation stability induction period (minutes)360 minimumASTM D525
Lead (mg/ℓ)5 maximumIP 224 or ASTM D5059
Benzene (% volume)1 maximumASTM D5580
Total aromatic compounds (including benzene) (% volume)42 maximum pool average and 45 maximum capASTM D5580
Ethanol (% volume)510 maximumASTM D4815
Olefins (% volume)18 maximumASTM D1319 or ASTM D6839
Manganese (mg/ℓ)2.0 maximumASTM D3831 or BS EN 16136
Phosphorus (mg/ℓ)1.3 maximumASTM D3231
Total oxygen (% mass)Petrol blended with not more than 5% volume ethanol: 2.7 maximumASTM D4815
Petrol blended with more than 5% and not more than 10% volume ethanol: 3.7 maximumASTM D4815
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (% volume)1 maximumASTM D4815
Methanol (% volume)3 maximumASTM D4815

Schedule 1A Requirements for fuel ethanol E85

rr 8B(2), 14B(2)

Schedule 1A: inserted, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 11 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

PropertyLimitsTest method
Acidity (as acetic acid CH3COOH) (% mass)0.006 maximumASTM D1613
Copper strip corrosion (3 hours at 50°C)Class 1 maximumASTM D130
Ethanol (% volume)70.0 minimumASTM D5501
85.0 maximum
Existent gum (solvent washed) (mg/100mℓ)5 maximumASTM D381
Inorganic chloride (mg/ℓ or mg/kg)10.0 maximum (mg/ℓ) or 12.6 maximum (mg/kg)ASTM D7319 or ASTM D7328
Methanol (% volume)1.0 maximumASTM D5501
pHe6.5 minimumASTM D6423
9.0 maximum
Silver strip corrosionClass 1 maximumASTM D130
Sulphur (mg/kg)Until close of 30 June 2018: 30 maximumIP 497 or ASTM D5453
From 1 July 2018: 10 maximum
Vapour pressure (DVPE) (kPa)38 minimumASTM D5191
Maxima: Auckland and Northland: 62 summer, 70 autumn and spring, 80 winter; rest of North Island: 68 summer, 75 autumn and spring, 80 winter; South Island: 70 summer, 80 autumn and spring, 85 winter
Water (% mass)1.26 maximumASTM E203 or EN 15489

Schedule 2 Requirements for diesel

rr 9, 15, 17(3), 18(4A)(a)

PropertyLimitsTest method
Fatty acid methyl esters (% volume)67 maximumEN 14078
Density at 15°C (kg/m3)7820 minimum
850 maximum		ASTM D1298 or ASTM D4052
Distillation—95% volume recovered at (°C) (T95)360 maximumASTM D86
Cetane51 minimum cetane index, or 51 minimum cetane number and 47 minimum cetane index8Cetane number: ASTM D613 or ASTM D6890
Cetane index: ASTM D4737
Water content (mg/kg)200 maximumIP 438
Total contamination (mg/kg)24 maximumASTM D6217
Colour (ASTM colour)3.0 maximumASTM D1500
Cloud point (°C) and cold filter plugging point (°C)9Summer maxima: Auckland and Northland: +6 cloud point; rest of New Zealand: +4 cloud point.
Winter maxima: +2 cloud point and –6 cold filter plugging point		Cloud point: ASTM D5773 Cold filter plugging point: IP 309
Sulphur10 (mg/kg)10 maximumIP 497 or ASTM D5453
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (% mass)11 maximumIP 391
Filter blocking tendency2.5 maximum; fuel must be of acceptable filterability so that it is fit for common purposesIP 387 or ASTM D2068
Lubricity—HFRR wear scar diameter at 60°C (μm)460 maximumIP 450
Viscosity at 40°C mm2 per second 2.0 minimum
4.5 maximum		ASTM D445
Oxidation stability (g/m3)25 maximumASTM D2274
Carbon residue (on 10% distillation residue) (% mass)0.2 maximumASTM D4530
Copper strip corrosion (3 hours at 50°C)Class 1 maximumASTM D130
Ash (% mass)0.01 maximumASTM D482
Flash point (°C)61 minimumASTM D93

Schedule 2 heading: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 12(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 2: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 12(2) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 2: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 12(3) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 2 footnote 7: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 12(4) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 2 footnote 7: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 12(5) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 3 Requirements for biodiesel

rr 10, 16, 17(2)

Schedule 3: replaced, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 13 of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

PropertyLimitsTest method
Fatty acid methyl esters (% mass)96.5 minimumEN 14103
Density at 15°C (kg/m3)860 minimum
900 maximum		ASTM D1298 or ASTM D4052
Viscosity at 40°C mm2 per second2.0 minimum
5.0 maximum11 		ASTM D445
Flash point (°C)100 minimumASTM D93
Sulphur (mg/kg)10 maximumIP 497 or ASTM D5453
Carbon residue (on 100% distillation residue) (% mass)
0.05 maximumASTM D4530
Cetane number51 minimum12ASTM D613 or ASTM D6890
Sulphated ash content (% mass)0.020 maximumASTM D874
Water (mg/kg)500 maximumIP 438
Total contamination (mg/kg)24 maximumEN 12662
Copper strip corrosion (3 hours at 50°C)Class 1 maximumASTM D130
Oxidation stability, 110°C (hours)8.0 minimum13EN 14112 or EN 15751
Acid value (mg KOH/g)0.50 maximumASTM D664
Iodine value (g iodine/100 g)140 maximumEN 14111
Linolenic acid methyl ester (% mass)12.0 maximumEN 14103
Polyunsaturated (≥4 double bonds) methyl esters (% mass)1 maximumEN 15779
Methanol (% mass)0.20 maximumEN 14110
Monoglycerides (% mass)0.80 maximumASTM D6584
Diglycerides (% mass)0.20 maximumASTM D6584
Triglycerides (% mass)0.20 maximumASTM D6584
Free glycerol (% mass)0.020 maximumASTM D6584
Total glycerol (% mass)0.25 maximumASTM D6584
Group I metals (Na+K) (mg/kg)5.0 maximumEN 14538 or EN 14108 and EN 14109
Group II metals (Ca+Mg) (mg/kg)5.0 maximumEN 14538
Phosphorus (mg/kg)4.0 maximumEN 14107 and EN 16294

Schedule 4 Requirements for denatured ethanol for blending

rr 8, 14

PropertyLimitsTest method
Ethanol (% volume)95.6 minimumASTM D5501
Methanol (% volume)1.0 maximumASTM D5501
Denaturant14 (% volume)1 minimum
1.5 maximum		ASTM D5501
Water (% mass)1.26 maximumASTM E203 or EN 15489
Existent gum (solvent washed) (mg/100 mℓ)5 maximumASTM D381
Inorganic chloride (mg/ℓ or mg/kg)10 maximum (mg/ℓ) or 12.6 maximum (mg/kg)ASTM D7319 or ASTM D7328
Copper (mg/kg)0.1 maximumASTM D1688A (as modified in ASTM D4806)
Sulphate (mg/kg)4 maximumASTM D7318, ASTM D7319, and ASTM D7328
Sulphur (mg/kg)Until close of 30 June 2018: 30 maximumIP 497 or ASTM D5453
From 1 July 2018: 10 maximum
Acidity (as acetic acid CH3COOH) (% mass)0.007 maximumASTM D1613
pHe6.5 minimum
9.0 maximum		ASTM D6423
AppearanceClear and brightASTM D4806

Schedule 4: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(1) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(2) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(3) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(4) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(5) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4 footnote 14: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(6) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Schedule 4 footnote 14: amended, on 2 October 2017, by regulation 14(7) of the Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259).

Rebecca Kitteridge,
Clerk of the Executive Council.

Issued under the authority of the Legislation Act 2012.

Date of notification in Gazette: 6 October 2011.

Reprints notes
1 General

This is a reprint of the Engine Fuel Specifications Regulations 2011 that incorporates all the amendments to those regulations as at the date of the last amendment to them.

2 Legal status

Reprints are presumed to correctly state, as at the date of the reprint, the law enacted by the principal enactment and by any amendments to that enactment. Section 18 of the Legislation Act 2012 provides that this reprint, published in electronic form, has the status of an official version under section 17 of that Act. A printed version of the reprint produced directly from this official electronic version also has official status.

3 Editorial and format changes

Editorial and format changes to reprints are made using the powers under sections 24 to 26 of the Legislation Act 2012. See also http://www.pco.parliament.govt.nz/editorial-conventions/.

4 Amendments incorporated in this reprint

Engine Fuel Specifications Amendment Regulations 2017 (LI 2017/259)

Criminal Procedure (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/409): regulation 3(2)

1 For regular and premium grade petrol in summer, a minimum E70 of 20% is permitted. Petrol that complies with the previous season’s quality, and that is stored in a filling-station tank to which fewer than 3 deliveries of petrol have been made since 6 weeks before the beginning of the season, is regarded as complying with this specification for up to 6 weeks after the beginning of the season.

2 For regular and premium grade petrol blended with more than 1% volume oxygenates, the E70 maximum is increased by 1% per 1% volume oxygenates in the blend.

3 For regular and premium grade petrol blended with more than 1% volume oxygenates, the flexible volatility index maximum allowed is 115.0 summer; 120.0 autumn and spring; 130.0 winter. Petrol that complies with the previous season’s quality, and that is stored in a filling-station tank to which fewer than 3 deliveries of petrol have been made since 6 weeks before the beginning of the season, is regarded as complying with this specification for up to 6 weeks after the beginning of the season.

4 For regular and premium grade petrol blended with more than 1% oxygenates, the maximum vapour pressure allowed is Auckland and Northland: 72 kPa summer, 87 kPa autumn and spring, 97 kPa winter; rest of North Island: 77 kPa summer, 87 kPa autumn and spring, 97 kPa winter; South Island: 82 kPa summer, 92 kPa autumn and spring, 102 kPa winter. Petrol that complies with the previous season’s quality, and that is stored in a filling-station tank to which fewer than 3 deliveries of petrol have been made since 6 weeks before the beginning of the season, is regarded as complying with this specification for up to 6 weeks after the beginning of the season.

5 Regulation 8(3)(c) provides that ethanol must comply with Schedule 4 (requirements for denatured ethanol for blending).

6 Regulation 10 provides that the fatty acid methyl esters (biodiesel) must comply with Schedule 3: Requirements for biodiesel.

7 For diesel blended with more than 1% and not more than 7% volume biodiesel, the density maximum is 854 kg/m3.

8 The cetane index is not applicable for diesel blended with biodiesel.

9 These are maximum criteria; cold flow properties of a fuel must be fit for common purposes in the region and the season in which it is sold. Diesel that complies with the previous season’s quality, and that is stored in a filling-station tank to which fewer than 3 deliveries of diesel have been made since 6 weeks before the beginning of the season, is regarded as complying with this specification for up to 6 weeks after the beginning of the season. Sales for marine use may be summer grade at any time of the year.

10 The limit for sulphur does not apply to sale for marine use. See also regulation 15(2).

11 Regulations 10(a) and 17(2)(a) provide that, in the case of the biodiesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel, the maximum viscosity at 40ºC is 6.0 mm2 per second.

12 Regulations 10(b) and 17(2)(b) provide that, in the case of the biodiesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel, the minimum cetane number is 47.

13 Regulation 10(c) provides that, in the case of the biodiesel component of any blend of diesel and biodiesel sold by retail sale, the minimum oxidation stability is 10.0 hours.

14 The denaturant contained in ethanol must comply with regulation 8(3)(b) in the case of retail sales and regulation 14(3)(a) in the case of non-retail sales.