iEV’s co-founder Raymond had a one-week holiday in New Zealand recently, and without doubt he booked a Tesla from Europcar at Auckland International Airport.
The travel itinerary unfolded as follows: spending the initial two days in Auckland, followed by a journey to Napier on the third day, then proceeding to Wellington on the fourth day. The adventure continued with a drive to New Plymouth on the fifth day, concluding with a return to Auckland on the sixth day to catch his flight back home.
1st & 2nd day - Auckland
Auckland pleasantly surprised Raymond with the abundance of EVs, and he was notably astonished by the widespread presence of Model Y in the city, serving not only as private cars but also as taxis. Thanks to NZ government’s proactive EV incentives, as well as their generous rebate on 2nd hand EVs which is not happening in Australia yet.
Finding a charging station in Auckland is quite easy, Raymond charged at Z EV Charging Station in CBD close to his hotel. The rate is N$0.69 per kWh. The fast 50kw DC charger is made by Tritium, and Z EV Charging app is required for payment. The first charge consumed 20.5kWh, cost 27 minutes and N$14.
The public 'parking + charging' facility in Auckland proved to be remarkable. During lunch in Panmure, Raymond discovered a P240 EV free parking spot. Managed by ChargeNet, this charging station is free to use, though you need to bring your own charging cable.
3rd day - Napier
Driving an EV in New Zealand is such an enjoyable experience. The fast acceleration, swift steering handling, together with Tesla regenerative braking work perfectly on their hilly and twisty roads. Not only does it make overtaking slow vehicles on dedicated lanes effortless, but it also eliminates the need to constantly use brake panels on most downhill roads.
Raymond made another stop for a recharge at the Z EV Charging Station in Cambridge, along the highway to Napier. It only took 26 minutes to add 28 kWh (or 200km), and the time was just enough to use the restroom, get a hot coffee and check his emails.
Tesla Supercharger at 1 Kaimanawa St, Taupo is unbelievable. Raymond has never encountered a charging station situated in a location as stunning as this one. Enjoying a sandwich near the Great Lake Taupo, left Raymond with the impression that a slow charger would be preferred at this place.
NZ trip to be continued...
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