Labour policy targets vehicle costs and 'right to repair' for whānau ahead of 2026 election

Labour has announced a new policy package designed to lower the cost of vehicle ownership and operation, focusing on car repair costs and fuel price competition as Aotearoa heads toward the 2026 election. According to a report by Waatea News on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, the party intends to address the financial pressures on households by targeting the everyday costs associated with transport, such as commuting and taking tamariki to school. Central to the proposal is the introduction of a 'right to repair' law. This legislation would mandate that vehicle manufacturers provide independent mechanics with fair access to the technical manuals, software, and tools required to service modern vehicles. Labour Commerce and Consumer Affairs spokesperson Arena Williams noted that independent workshops currently face barriers when attempting to repair software-dependent cars. The party argues that following the model of 2022 Australian reforms would support skilled jobs and apprenticeships while allowing independent workshops to offer services at lower prices than dealerships. Regarding fuel costs, the policy includes a three-year freeze on fuel tax and new powers for the Commerce Commission to monitor weekly price changes. Labour also plans to apply price-gouging legislation to the fuel market to ensure cost reductions are passed on to motorists. Additionally, NZTA would be tasked with reviewing surplus land for potential use as independent petrol stations or EV charging sites to increase market competition. By strengthening protections against restrictive supply contracts and improving access for independent retailers, the party aims to provide whānau with more choices at the pump and in the workshop. The policy seeks to ensure that keeping whānau mobile remains affordable as the 2026 campaign places household costs at the center of the political contest.