Petrol prices: Is it cheaper to use buses, trains in Auckland amid rising fuel cost?

Amid soaring fuel prices across New Zealand, a cost breakdown shows public transportation is the cheapest way to travel.

Several petrol stations have run dry while 91-octane has pushed past $3 a litre against the backdrop of the war in Iran.

Auckland Transport director of public transport and active modes Stacey van der Putten told the Herald before the conflict began last month that the cost of public transport was roughly the same as the cost of driving a vehicle in Auckland.

“The cost of petrol has risen at least 50 cents per litre since then, with a 15-kilometre single person commute now costing roughly 80 cents per kilometre, which is equal to about $12 for the total trip,” she said.

“This does not factor in any parking costs.”

Van der Putten said the same 15km trip on public transport would typically cost $4.90 through two zones.

“[It] would be a significantly faster journey due to congestion and the availability of bus lanes, frequent rail and ferry services.

“So, we can confidently say that the cost of driving 15km in or out of the city is now roughly double the cost of travelling the same distance by public transport.”

Other councils across New Zealand are encouraging commuters to use other forms of transport due to rising fuel costs.

In a Facebook post, Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said Nelsonians may have work colleagues in the same neighbourhood or en route with whom they can alternate taking a car.

“Settled autumn weather like that forecast this week, neither too hot or cold, is ideal for biking.”

Smith said everyone’s work and transport circumstances were different.

“Council’s role is to provide infrastructure for the full range of transport choices from cars, buses and bikes to walking,” he said.

“However, the current high fuel prices and risks of a shortage are a good time for people and businesses to consider and try alternatives.”

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