In 1936, 29 Auckland owner-carriers decided small operators needed one voice. Ninety years later, National Road Carriers has worked with Governments of every stripe. Tomorrow, New Zealand picks the next one. 

No matter who wins we will work with them. We have built relationships with parties across the increasingly splintered political spectrum on your behalf. 

Fuel has jumped to third on the list of voters' worries, behind only the cost of living and health. Ipsos has it at 31%, up from 17% in September. Brent Crude rose almost 14% in October. Singapore diesel, the benchmark our fuel is priced off, is holding at around US$173 a barrel and on the last day of the month a tanker was mined in the Strait of Hormuz. Diesel is sitting just under $3.20 a litre, and New Zealand spent $12.1 billion importing fuel in the year to July.

No government can calm that ocean. But the next one can build a sturdier boat. Here's our list for the first 100 days: 

 - One minister for the whole chain. Ports, roads, rail and coastal shipping are one system. Appoint a Minister of Supply Chain to own it. 

 - A fuel plan, not just a fuel price. Secure more onshore storage, and back the move to lower-emission trucks so we're less exposed next time. 

 - Spend where the freight is. Back the projects that move the most freight per dollar, and keep the maintenance money flowing. Pausing fuel tax rises eases the pain at the pump. It doesn't stop the potholes. 

 - Finish the productivity rules. Bigger, safer, more efficient trucks shouldn't take a decade to approve. 

 - Lift the bar on licensing. Tighten the Transport Service Licence, and make everyone who buys freight share responsibility for moving it safely.

 - Recognise truck driving as skilled work. Give good drivers a pathway to residency, or keep training them for Australia.

Tell us how the NZTA rule changes affect you

On a semi related topic, NZTA is consulting on 28 heavy vehicle rule changes. Some say the package doesn't go far enough, and they have a point. That's exactly why your real-world examples matter. Tell us by 27 November how the changes would work in your yard.

Rates are likely to rise again

The Reserve Bank held rates last week, but don't bank on it lasting. The Bank says more rises are likely, and Westpac expects one on 9 December. Check your fuel adjustment clauses and finance plans before the Christmas rush. 

The 29 carriers who started this association didn't wait for permission to speak up. We won't either. Whoever is sitting around the Cabinet table next month, we'll be at the door with this list. Vote tomorrow, if you haven't already. 

Justin Tighe-Umbers, Chief Executive, National Road Carriers Assn