The government's decision to raise public transport fares significantly is met with criticism from Labour.
The Government has announced plans to increase bus and train fares by up to 70 percent over the next few years. This move has been labelled as a huge blow to communities across New Zealand, particularly those who rely heavily on public transport. According to Labour's transport spokesperson, Tangi Utikere, this decision will disproportionately affect families, students, and workers already struggling with the cost of living.
The announcement comes amidst a climate emergency and cost-of-living crisis. Critics argue that the fare hikes will make it even harder for people to choose affordable and sustainable transport options. Labour is calling on the government to prioritize public transport funding to ensure it works for everyone, providing reliable options that also help protect the planet.
Tangi Utikere accused Simeon Brown of being out of touch with everyday New Zealanders, saying forcing those who have no alternative but to use public transport to bear the brunt of budget shortfalls is simply wrong. The Labour party has previously scrapped free and half-price transport for children and young people, and now they are calling on the government to come up with a proper plan to fund the public transport system.