Fares and Future Sustainability: Exploring the Relationship Between Public Transport Pricing and Commuting Practices in Wellington, New Zealand

<p dir="ltr">Public transport plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable urban mobility and mitigating climate change by reducing private vehicle dependence and lowering carbon emissions. However, changes in fare structures can significantly influence people’s commuting practices, particularly in the context of a cost-of-living crisis. This study examines public perceptions of transport pricing policies in Wellington, New Zealand, and investigates how socio-demographic factors and environmental attitudes are associated with people’s commuting choices following fare changes. Additionally, it explores whether shifts in commuting practices align with more sustainable transport practices, such as increased public transport usage, walking, or cycling.</p><p dir="ltr">A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative survey analysis with qualitative thematic analysis. The survey collected data on travel habits, perceptions of fare affordability, and socio-demographic characteristics, including age, income, and education levels. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression and descriptive statistics, were conducted using SPSS and Excel, while qualitative responses were manually analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework. Consistent with previous studies, findings indicate that fare increases create financial strain for lower-income individuals, students, and retirees, potentially leading to a shift away from public transport towards less sustainable modes of travel.</p><p dir="ltr">The study is particularly relevant in light of recent public transport funding changes in Wellington, which may even see fare increases of up to 70% coming up this year. These findings contribute to ongoing policy discussions about how fare structures influence transport equity, accessibility, and sustainability. Recommendations include fare subsidies for vulnerable populations, targeted incentives to promote active and public transport use, and improved infrastructure to support multimodal commuting. This research underscores the need for policy interventions that align transport affordability with climate change mitigation goals, ensuring equitable and sustainable mobility options for all.</p>