Should public transport be free for students?

Photo by Prakash Bhana

Here we go again; Covid-19 is out of control, cafes are closing down, and the fear of being infected leaves students wanting to stay home for good.  

University students are faced with several challenges during these unpredictable times, such as balancing work with study or settling into new accommodation.   

One of the challenges that continues to raise concerns for students are the ongoing issues with Wellington’s public transport system. It's no surprise that students have found themselves in situations where buses are late, trains are cancelled, or transport fees have been too expensive.   

Recently, the Labour Party announced that public transport fares for all Kiwis will be halved, beginning 1 April. Following this announcement, students have been curious as to whether these three months will lead to reliable transport in the city, or cause more mayhem with a potential flock of Kiwis taking advantage of the change.  

Grace, a second-year student at Massey, previously commuted from Lower Hutt to the Wellington campus three times a week to attend classes in 2021. She spent approximately $39 on weekly train fares, adding to the ever-growing list of student costs. 

"When they were having the strikes or not enough staff, there were definitely buses being cancelled," she said.  

When asked about the price cut, Grace said, "If the cost was a bit less, it would be better for everyone. Especially students who are going into massive debt."  

Second-year student Jennifer commutes from the CBD to campus. Her weekly transport fees are roughly $12, depending on whether her classes are held over Zoom. When asked about the reliability of getting to and from campus on time, she agreed with Grace saying, "They're always cancelled." 

Although Snapper has a 25% tertiary concession for students, ongoing campaigns demand free public transport for all students. The Free Fares campaign, for instance, looks to provide free public transport for tertiary students, as well as those under 25 and Community Service cardholders. 

"I understand that it's a complex thing to figure out, but it would be good if there was a discounted price," said Grace.  

In Jennifer's situation, the next three months of subsided public transport fees means she will save $54. This could benefit her savings account, or possibly go toward $13 student deals at Mama Brown’s.  

Either way, public transport has a lot of room for development in Wellington. Ongoing campaigns and student voices are pivotal for change. It is important that students keep calling attention to issues that need new solutions and different management strategies.