Further details of the government’s transport package to help New Zealanders through the current global energy crisis have been agreed by the Cabinet, Transport Minister Michael Wood announced today.
In addition to the 25 cents per liter reduction in fuel excise duty for three months, the government can now confirm:
From April 1 to June 30, 2022, funding will be provided to local government to implement half-price public transport tariffs covering core public transport services, Te Huia and Capital Connection train services, and total mobility services for those with long-term disabilities. not be able to. to use public transport.
From the end of April to the end of July 2022, road user costs will be reduced by 36% on all legal tariffs.
“Confirmation of the reduction in road user costs and full extent of the reduction of public transport will support New Zealanders due to the global energy crisis caused by the war in Ukraine,” said Michael Wood.
“I want to assure road payers that they will receive three months of reduced fares, even with the later start date. The complexity of road user charges means that a few more weeks are needed to put the reduced fares in place.
“The road transport industry plays a vital role in the supply of food and other essential goods throughout the country. It was important for the government that we supported the industry through these challenging times.
“As a government, we are committed to supporting public transport. By halving the prices, we can directly reduce the transport costs for households and those who can encourage them to replace their current car journeys by public transport, which is easily accessible.The reduction in public transport prices also provides households with more money to manage rising living costs that are affected by fuel prices.
“The confirmed scope of the tariff rebate, including key additional services currently receiving funding support from Waka Kotahi such as Capital Connection and Total Mobility, will ensure that we are able to make a meaningful difference to more New Zealanders.
“The cut of the Fuel Excise Duty, which came into force last week, has a direct impact on the pumps. I know that when the other parts of the package are in place in April, some of the pressure , which many New Zealanders face will be reduced.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine will continue to affect global energy markets and supply chains. We will be actively monitoring the situation in the coming months and working with our partners to ensure we have the right package.
“This support package will make a real difference for hard-working families who are currently struggling with rising costs in these uncertain times,” said Michael Wood.
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