Labour’s election policy recognises the essential role public transport plays

LGNZ welcomes the public transport policy announced yesterday by the Labour Party, which would cap fares at $20 a week in main centres and $10 everywhere else.

LGNZ President Rehette Stoltz says that investment into public transport connects communities and supports local economies.  

LGNZ Regional Sector Chair Deon Swiggs, who is also the Chair of Canterbury Regional Council, one of the country’s largest public transport providers, says it is great to see this policy target investment in public transport.  

“This recognises the important role public transport plays in our cities,” Chair Swiggs says. 

“The fuel crisis has proved public transport is essential. We’ve seen ongoing and significant increases in patronage in recent months.”  

“Whatever the outcome of the general election, we look forward to working with the next government to improve service levels and invest in the public transport infrastructure communities need.” 

Mayor Andy Watson, the Chair of LGNZ’s Infrastructure Reference Group, says broader infrastructure funding settings must ensure the right investment in roads, rail, active transport and public transport, so that people can choose what works best for them. 

“Future governments will need to remember that both public transport and roads are important: it’s ‘and and’, not ‘either or’,” Mayor Andy Watson said.