Public Transport best use of precious fuel supply

As the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran continues, Wellingtonians are starting to migrate from petrol pumps and private vehicles to public transport, with Metlink seeing an increase in passenger numbers.

Initial data shows an increase of train and bus trips in the last two weeks says Metlink group manager Samantha Gain. 

“By comparing last week to the same time last year, we know there are 3% more people on board trains and buses which is a strong reversal of the declines we had been recently seeing. Historically there has been a correlation between higher oil prices and increased public transport use, so we expect passenger numbers to continue to rise,” Gain says. 

Metlink is working with operators to monitor any potential fuel impacts on services in line with its business continuity plan, which sets out how services will operate under varying levels of disruption. 

“Our preparations are thorough and extensive, and should this issue escalate, we will take direction from MBIE on a nationally coordinated approach and keep our passengers informed of any service changes". 

“From April, we will be launching e-pay, enabling people to pay with their VISA and Mastercard debit and credit cards as well as smart devices, making it easier for people to give public transport a go,” Gain adds. 

Greater Wellington chair Cr Daran Ponter has penned a letter alongside Auckland Transport and Environment Canterbury urging the Government to push more people towards public transport to help keep the economy going, help minimise the impact of rising fuel costs on Kiwis, and help the Government manage its precious fuel supply. 

“Simply put, we need to move the most amount of people with the least amount of fuel and public transport is designed to do exactly that,” Cr Ponter says.  

“With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, our public transport is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.” 

“In our letter, we have suggested the Government actively encourage the use of public transport rather than working from home. Supporting and encouraging the use of public transport would limit any impact on the economy and productivity, and actively support those workers who are unable to work from home to continue to deliver important services,” adds Cr Ponter. 

As Public Transport Authorities, Greater Wellington, Auckland Transport and Environment Canterbury provide 89% of New Zealand’s public transport services. In 2025 their combined services recorded over 141 million boardings and collectively they have the capacity to support many more people to get to work, school, medical and community services and university, if required. 
 
Cabinet and post-Cabinet discussions regarding the ongoing impact of war on fuel supplies are expected to continue today and throughout the week. Read the open letter from Public Transport Authorities to Ministers here: 

Letter to Minsters regarding Potential fuel shortages – Public Transport’s role in supporting the Government’s response

Read more here

date_range Published 20 Mar 2026

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