Public transport usage across New Zealand has surged sharply as rising fuel prices place increasing strain on household budgets, prompting fresh debate over making services free.
According to a report by 1News, in Auckland, public transport recorded 2.25 million trips across buses, trains, and ferries last week. This marks a seven-year high and an increase of 140,000 journeys compared to the same week last year, as more commuters abandon private vehicles amid the ongoing global energy crisis.
Other major cities are experiencing similar trends. Wellington saw a 3% rise in usage, Christchurch recorded a 2.2% increase, and Dunedin reported a 4% jump. Local councils indicate that demand is expected to keep growing in the coming weeks, as reported by 1News.
The spike in ridership has intensified political calls for free public transport. The Green Party has formally approached the Prime Minister, offering parliamentary support for a fuel relief package that includes three months of free public transport.
"It is a no-brainer to remove all of the barriers to public transport use," Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick said, noting it would also help take pressure off fuel supply for those who still needed to drive, as quoted by 1News.
Meanwhile, advocacy group Free Fares NZ is pushing for more targeted support. The group is advocating for fare-free travel for students, Community Services Card holders, and Total Mobility users.
"We want something that makes people's lives easier in what's going to be a difficult time," spokesperson Frances Mountier said, as quoted by 1News.
"We know that the Minister of Finance has talked about promising to deliver targeted and timely support, and this is one part of that," as quoted by 1News.
Transport authorities are now closely monitoring whether existing systems can handle the growing demand. Auckland Transport’s Rachel Cara said that although early March is typically the busiest period, last week surpassed expectations.
"Traditionally, the first week of March is our highest week, until last week happened," she said, 1News has quoted.
Government officials have met with transport agencies to evaluate whether services can sustain continued increases in passenger numbers.
On the issue of fares, the Transport Minister noted that public transport is already significantly subsidised, adding that any further financial relief would need to be carefully assessed, as reported by 1News.