The Green Party's Transport spokesperson, Julie Anne Genter, has expressed strong opposition to the Government's directive to increase bus and train fares substantially over the next few years.
Aotearoa was once a country with affordable public transport available nationwide. However, the Coalition Government is now pushing fares up further, putting more pressure on families and young people already struggling to make ends meet. Fares could double in some regions under these changes.
The directive has been met with criticism from Genter, who argues it will be bad for the climate, cities, and those on low incomes. It may force people to use cars instead of public transport, resulting in more traffic, air pollution, and emissions. This is particularly concerning given the need for collective emission reduction and economic recovery.
Genter believes that actions speak louder than words and that the Coalition Government must commit to funding a public transport network for everyone's benefit. The Green Party sees this directive as out of touch with what New Zealand's cities need.