Students in New Zealand to benefit from a Green Party policy for free public transport as election nears
The New Zealand Green Party has announced its plan to deliver free off-peak public transport for tertiary students.
The plan is the second component of the Green Party’s economic priority this election: Building a smarter greener economy that really works for all New Zealanders.
Co-leader Russel Norman says the Green Card will reduce the cost of transport for students.
“It is an investment in students and education, and will help to reduce their costs of living,” he says.
“Making transport affordable for those in education and training is a smart solution to the financial pressures facing students, as well as encouraging better transport choices amongst a large sector of society.”
Research from 2011 found 67 per cent of students were spending money on public transport, with an average spend of $35.40 per week.
“Students are facing rising living cost pressures; transport, food, power, rent, but often have very restricted income,” says Norman.
“A Student Green Card will encourage smarter transport use and ease congestion for all travellers. It will help to shift cars off our roads, while making lower income students more mobile.”
He says increasing student patronage on public transport networks can cost-effectively provide improved services for everyone.
“As more people take the bus or train throughout the day, we can increase the number of services, which in turn will make public transport a convenient option for even more people.”