Fuel access boost for Marlborough Sounds communities
Published: 15 January, 2026
Remote communities in the outer Marlborough Sounds will soon have access to a local, reliable petrol supply at Elaine Bay through a $350,000 grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund.
Elaine Bay in the Marlborough Sounds
This will restore a critical service that residents, visitors, marine farmers, boat operators and emergency services rely on – and means they will no longer have to make a one-hour drive to Rai Valley for refuelling. The tank will be located adjacent to an existing diesel facility.
More than 15,600 tourists, campers, and recreational boaters visit the area annually. Improved fuel access will improve convenience while supporting local businesses.
Road access in the Marlborough Sounds can be susceptible to extreme weather, and closures can last weeks or longer. Restoring full fuel services at Elaine Bay is a strategic investment in resilience.
Not-for-profit community organisation Elaine Bay Fuel Services (EBFS) is co-funding $235,000 for the project.
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2026.