Fare rise set lower than first forecast

A 2 per cent increase to Metlink train, bus and harbour ferry fares has been proposed by Greater Wellington Regional Council.

The fare increase – below the 3 per cent rise forecast – will be confirmed after it has been consulted on as part of the regional council’s Annual Plan process. Consultation will begin in late March.

The increase will also depend on successful negotiations with public transport operators.

The smaller fare increase was proposed largely because of increased concerns about the affordability of public transport, said council chairperson Fran Wilde.

Fare increases are needed to cover rising costs, but the council is also very aware of the need to ensure public transport is affordable, she said.

‘‘We’re concerned that this is becoming an issue for more people so a smaller increase is appropriate.’’

Ms Wilde said the increase is in the total fare revenue rather than an increase in each individual fare.

‘‘ Some fares will not increase at all, whereas most stored value card or multitrip fares will increase by an average of about 2.5 per cent.’’

For train users between Porirua and Wellington cities, fares would increase by about 2.5 percent. A 10-trip adult ticket for five zones would increase from $48.60.80 to $49.80, a monthly pass from $145.80 to $149.40. A four-zone fare from Tawa would rise by 2.5 per cent, becoming $40.80 for a 10-trip and $122.40 for a monthly ticket.

Ms Wilde said the smaller overall increase would still ensure that fares made up 55-60 per cent of public transport costs.