Fuel price getting you down? AA unveils simple way Kiwi can track their journey costs

23 April 2026

Kiwi can now get a better understanding of how much their road trips cost their wallet, and the planet, with AA’s new Trip Tracker function.  

Built into the Association’s recently launched app, the Trip Tracker shows users how long their journey will take as well as a cost estimate based on vehicle details and the current fuel or electric charging price.  

AA Chief Mobility Officer Jonathan Sergel says escalating fuel prices are prompting Kiwi to consider the cost of every car trip, as well as distance and time.  

“Often the only fuel price we think about is when it’s time to fill up the tank, but each journey has its cost. Using the Trip Tracker can help drivers understand how much their trip to the store or across town will cost them, and evaluate alternatives.  

“Public transport could potentially be a cheaper option, or even carpooling, cycling or walking where possible. It’s about educating people, bringing greater clarity to their budgets and encouraging mindful travel.”  

Users simply input their journey from point A to point B, their number plate and which fuel they use into the Trip Tracker. There is an option to adjust the price of fuel based off your local service station or use the average price within the app.  

For electric vehicle drivers, the app shows the average price per kWH of electricity available at public charging stations. 

Jonathan says if drivers don’t know their car well, the fuel price per litre advertised at service stations doesn’t reveal enough about the cost of their journeys. 

“Drivers might not know how far a certain amount of litres will get them, especially if they have a less modern car without an accurate distance gauge, so we’re turning fuel prices into a clear dollar figure per trip.  

“Of course, a cross-country road trip will cost more, but several short journeys add up too, so it’s well-worth inputting any car journey you take into Trip Tracker, short or long.” 

The other element of the Trip Tracker function informs user of the average carbon emissions for their journey, giving users insights to support a lower emission lifestyle.  

“Better fuel cost and emission visibility can lead to reduced unnecessary driving and help people make more sustainable transport choices.” 

Trip Tracker is available on the new AA app. Search ‘The AA (NZ)’ app on the App Store or Google Play store and download for free.