Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) says public transport can play an important role in supporting our communities as global events continue to put pressure on fuel supply and prices.

Council Chair Dr Deon Swiggs says public transport provides a reliable, affordable and fuelefficient way for people to continue getting to work, school, healthcare and daily activities.

“Buses can move far more people using significantly less fuel than private vehicles, and that matters when fuel supply is uncertain.

“In Greater Christchurch, a Metro bus fare is $3 or less - cheaper than a litre of petrol - and fare caps mean customers will never pay more than $30 a week if they use the same payment method,” Chair Swiggs said.

Alongside Auckland Transport and Greater Wellington Regional Council, Canterbury Regional Council has written to the Minister of Finance, Minister of Transport and Associate Minister for Energy, highlighting the critical role public transport can play in supporting any government response to fuel supply challenges.

The letter suggests that if private vehicle use is restricted or discouraged, actively encouraging public transport, rather than working from home, would better protect productivity and support workers who are unable to work from home.

Canterbury Regional Council delivers urban public transport services via Metro, providing vital connections across Christchurch, Rolleston, Rangiora, Lincoln, Kaiapoi and Timaru. The region has steadily invested in more energy efficient transport, with more than 70 electric buses in the fleet.

“This investment means we’re already reducing our reliance on fuel and can keep services moving even when fuel prices rise. For fuel-run buses, we plan for cost fluctuations through our Annual Plan and have reserve funds available to help manage unexpected pressures,” Chair Swiggs said.

“Our services are well placed to carry more people, particularly outside of peak times. Choosing public transport reduces congestion, avoids parking hassles, supports local businesses and helps people save money.

“Public transport is already funded in part through rates and taxes, using it more helps make the most of that investment,” Chair Swiggs said.

Canterbury Regional Council is continuing to monitor fuel costs and wider economic conditions. At this stage, there has been no impact on the council’s ability to deliver services. We are currently looking at what rapid and effective support we could provide to our community in terms of public transport provision if required. Any future changes would be considered through the Annual Plan process, which is open for engagement and subject to council decision making.

“As people plan how they travel in the coming weeks, we encourage them to consider public transport. It not only saves them money, it helps strengthen the resilience of our transport system for everyone.”

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