The Poor Subsidise the Rich When it Comes to Ferry Fares

A public meeting on Waiheke Island this Sunday will discuss the consequences of the latest increase in ferry fares to Auckland. The increase means the cost of travelling from Waiheke to Auckland has increased 52% in the past six years - a situation that is pushing low and middle income islanders off the island.

Campaign for Fair Ferry Fares spokesperson Cathy Urquhart said

" The wealthy commuters of Half Moon Bay, which has a social deprivation index of 2 (1 being the wealthiest), pay $226 for a monthly pass for a similar 35 minute journey to Auckland, in contrast to the commuters of Waiheke Island who now pay $344. Waiheke Island has a social deprivation index of 7 (10 being the lowest). Why should the poorest in our community be burdened with these unaffordable fares?"

" The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) now have the power under the new Public Transport Management Act to discontinue a commercial service and require it to be provided directly under contract to ARTA. They could then set some affordability criteria. As things stand, the diversity of our island community is under threat"

Mike Lee, the Leader of the Auckland Regional Council (ARC), Peter Clark, General Manager Strategy and Planning, ARTA, CEO Douglas Hudson from Fullers Ferries, Judith Tizard MP (Associate Transport Minister), Denise Roche (Green candidate for Auckland Central) and Nikki Kaye (National candidate for Auckland Central) are all attending the meeting at the Ostend Memorial Hall, 2pm. Sunday 21st September.

ENDS

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