The Associate Energy Minister says 'finicky' differences have barred Australian-standard fuel here.

The Government's relaxing our specifications to harmonise with Australia's, to combat global shortages. 

Shane Jones says it'll give importers a wider pool and hopefully bring some relief at the pump.

He says it's compatible with Kiwi vehicles and meets safety and quality expectations. 

Jones says it could run for 12 months.

"It's temporary, but obviously the PM on various other occasions has talked about how it's overdue for harmonisation between Aussie-Kiwi, and who knows? It could very well be permanent."

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