Bit that grates me about Diesel prices and NZ road user tax on Diesel vehicles is the Diesels use less fuel in the same distance and a common rail electronically controlled Diesel has less NOX and SOX emissions which is why they are the big thing in Europe. So where are the Green credentials of our Governments is whacking horror surcharges on Diesel that is considerably cheaper to produce, hence its low cost at the pump.
In NZ the RUC applied to Diesels just represents more money to add to the 60% of fuel excise that is not spent on transport infrastructure. The RWC has highlighted that its about time NZ spent a little of the money on true green solutions like mass transit that actually works and doesn't use the ex Perth diesel commuter trains......
I would go for a Hiace if I was going for a van but then you really need another vehicle for the wife to drive during the week, because box vans are a bitch to park in town and have bad visibility.