The price of a bus, train or ferry ticket has suddenly become one of the year’s political hot topics. In Auckland, Labour-linked mayoral candidate Efeso Collins has backed the ultimate version of affordable public transport – advocating the scrapping of fares. \
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In Wellington, the regional council has delayed the once-inevitable inflation-matching fare rise of 3 per cent because councillors are divided over whether a freeze would be better. \
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Across Canterbury, public views are being sought on options such as fare-free travel for under-25s, students and Total Mobility or Community Services cardholders – or flat fares, $2 per adult.
