Auckland's public transport fares rise, squeezing household budgets in 2026
Auckland's bus and train fares rose by 10 to 25 cents per trip from 1 February 2026. The increase, averaging 5.1%, comes as operating costs climbed over 10% in the past year. Auckland Transport (AT) stressed it had kept the rise as low as possible to ease pressure on struggling households.
The fare adjustment follows AT's annual review, designed to balance rising expenses with affordability. Despite efforts to limit the impact, the change has sparked concerns, particularly among low-income families who rely on public transportation daily.
A South Auckland resident, Lepa, warned that higher fares would strain budgets for those already struggling. She also called for better safety measures, saying she avoids buses due to fears of assaults. Her comments reflect wider worries about crime discouraging ridership.
Manukau ward councillor Lotu Fuli acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, noting Pacific and South Auckland communities face the greatest hardship. Meanwhile, younger commuters like Saia and Hame highlighted the challenge of budgeting for transportation alongside other essential costs.
Public transportation remains vital for many, with 44.5 million boardings recorded in the year to December 2025. AT has emphasised ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including the 2025/26 summer rail programme, but no recent data on usage trends was available.
The fare increase takes effect amid economic pressures and safety concerns. AT has committed to minimising the financial burden while continuing infrastructure improvements. For now, commuters will need to adjust to the higher costs as the system evolves.
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