06/01/2026
Elaine Bay Resilient Fuel Services receives Regional Infrastructure Fund grant
Elaine Bay Fuel Services (EBFS) is very pleased to announce their receipt of a grant from the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to help sustain the economic vitality of small remote outer Marlborough Sounds communities by re-establishing petrol supply facilities at Elaine Bay.
EBFS, a not-for-profit Incorporated Society, has for many years supplied fuel to a wide range of users in the area, however in 2024 the prior petrol tank reached its end of life and was successfully removed.
Chairperson of EBFS, Rob Pooley said “Our society and the communities it serves are particularly grateful for the support of Minister for Regional Development Hon Shane Jones, and Kānoa officials, in backing this important project.”
(The RIF is administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit).
Rob Pooley, said a local fuel supply is critical to the economic functionality and resilience of small and isolated Marlborough Sounds communities. In recent times, a number of fuel services locations in the Sounds had closed down, including at Elaine Bay, Okiwi Bay and French Pass.
Elaine Bay is centrally located and accessible by road and sea, ideal for supporting regional industries including tourism, forestry, farming, and aquaculture as well as recreational, visitor and residential users.
Beyond the grant, EBFS is required to secure additional funding from its membership and related parties. Continued support from current and new members will be important to secure the long-term viability of this new facility.
In line with its support for regional development and community resilience, Marlborough District Council (MDC) have agreed to contribute to the project with a grant of $20,000 from the Mayoral Relief Fund. EBFS is thrilled to receive this support and extends its thanks to Mayor Nadine Taylor.
Mayor Nadine said “It’s excellent news that Elaine Bay Fuel Services (EBFS) have been successful with their application to Kānoa’s Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF). Council is very pleased to be able to support this project with a grant from funds set aside to aid the region’s recovery from the severe weather events, which particularly affected our Marlborough Sounds communities.”
Mayor Nadine said “The facility will provide future fuel resilience as well as support the economies of our smaller Sounds communities. It will also provide a critical service for locals and visitors, and it fits perfectly with our strategic direction for civil defense and emergency management, to build a disaster-resilient district.”
Rob Pooley said, “The new fuel facility should be fully operational, certified and compliant for the 2026/27 summer and EBFS had now engaged an experienced project manager to lead delivery of the project.”
Further information is available on request to EBFS Chairperson, Rob Pooley:
Ph 027 4472476
Email: [email protected]
