Fueling Up & Feeling Good: The BP New Plymouth Experience
BP in New Plymouth Central consistently earns a solid 4.2-star rating, and for good reason. Located at 71 Powderham Street, New Plymouth 4310, this isn’t just your average gas station – it's a convenient one-stop shop for drivers and locals alike, offering fuel, car care, a cafe, and essential amenities. Open daily from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM, its central location and extended hours make it a reliable choice for those on the go. Boasting both free parking and free street parking, access is simple for everyone.
Coffee, Car Washes & Convenient Extras: What BP Offers
Beyond simply supplying petrol (including diesel), BP New Plymouth sets itself apart with a range of facilities and offerings appealing to a variety of needs. Here's a breakdown:
- Car Care: A dedicated car wash offers a quick and efficient way to keep your vehicle looking its best.
- Fuel Options: Customers appreciate BP’s reputation for high-quality fuel, often highlighted for being methanol-free, contributing to engine safety and performance – a key differentiator in the New Zealand market.
- Cafe Delights: A significant draw for many is the on-site cafe, praised for its delicious coffee which stays hot right to the end. The XL cup size is particularly popular, considered great value.
- Practical Amenities:
- Wheelchair accessible restrooms ensure inclusivity.
- Restrooms are available for public use.
- Debit card and NFC mobile payments are accepted, offering payment flexibility.
- Other Services: Propane exchange is also available for those with relevant needs.
- For the RV Crowd: A notable feature is the presence of a dump station and clean water station, a boon for travellers and those with recreational vehicles.
The Price Point Debate: A Holiday Concern
While many praise the convenience and quality of BP’s offerings, a recurring theme in customer feedback revolves around fuel price increases, particularly around holiday periods. Several reviewers have pointed out a pattern of price hikes just before Christmas, attributing it to factors like rising oil prices—a sentiment readily acknowledged, albeit met with some frustration.
"So disappointed BP, huge price increase just before Xmas, seems it happens every year and all holidays, yeah yeah their will be some reason like oil went up. With all the billions in profits each year, that you increase on each year, how about just giving the consumer a break for once.”
This raises a valid question: at what point do relentless profit increases, benefiting shareholders, risk alienating consumers? The concern feels particularly acute given the perception of substantial overall company profits.
Shining Staff & Service Hiccups: A Mixed Bag
Despite the price concerns, the overwhelming majority of reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the staff. Specifically, praise is directed towards the team working between 12 pm and 6 am, described as “very polite and helpful". This positive interaction is often cited as a key reason why the location is seen as a “local place to morning coffee, refill and a snack”.
However, there have been instances of service issues. Recently, a customer attempting to utilise a coffee, muffin, and pie offer was reportedly denied due to a claimed lack of stock, despite the items appearing readily available. This led to a feeling of disappointment regarding customer service.
"Went for the small coffee+muffin+classic pie offer on 20/01/23 at 11:14am. Offer was valid till 31st January. Staff refused to provide us that saying there was no stock - but we could clearly see classic pies and muffin available in the hot cupboard and they were serving coffee as-well. Didn’t want to confront them but definitely we didn’t receive a good service."
This illustrates a need for consistent stock management and robust communication regarding promotions to ensure a positive customer experience. Phone: +64 6 758 4171.