The Public Transport Phenomena
Metro, our network. Source: Olivia Welsh.
“A developed country is not a place where the poor have cars. It’s where the rich use public transportation.” – Gustavo Petro
There are plenty of topics that fall under the umbrella of sustainability, like climate change, overconsumption, and waste production. Yet one aspect that often goes overlooked is the viability of the public transport system. Let’s have a look at public transport in Ōtautahi Christchurch, and throughout wider Aotearoa New Zealand.
Bus services, specifically the widely-utilised Metro, run seven days a week on a variety of schedules in Ōtautahi. These services play a crucial role in facilitating transportation for people who are unable to or choose not to drive.
However, there is more to busing than just ‘a means to get from A to B’. By providing a more environmentally sustainable option, bus services are becoming increasingly popular – especially with the recent decrease in fares, tertiary student discounts, and the ability to change buses within a two-hour period without incurring an extra charge. This has led to at least 24% of the Greater Ōtautahi population using the bus at some point within the last eight months.
“Our Metrocard bus fares are really good value and now cost the same to get anywhere in Greater Christchurch,” said Vicky Southworth, Regional Councillor at Environment Canterbury. “Since we’ve lowered our bus fares it’s been really exciting to see the number of passengers increase substantially.”
The combination of using the bus and cycling appears to be a favourable approach as well. Many students and workers make use of the bike rack on the front bumper, as most city buses have implemented this measure.
“I’ve been a big fan of the bus-bike combo,” said Southworth. “All of our buses have a bike rack with a space for two or three bikes up front.”
Bike rack on the front of a Metro bus. Source: Olivia Welsh.
While the harmful impacts of transportation are well-known, it takes more than saying people need to be doing this or should be doing that. A positive step towards a more sustainable future is actively changing lifestyles. This could mean advocating for ongoing transportation improvements, or not using a private car when feasible. This is because greenhouse gas emissions are lower by bus, especially when that bus is an electric one.
Electric buses also improve accessibility for individuals in wheelchairs or with mobility restrictions, as they are easier to board, according to MetroInfo. Currently, these electric buses are undergoing testing and monitoring stages.
“We are transitioning our fleet to fully electric by 2035 at the latest. Customers will find these buses quieter and smoother than the old ones, and there are charging points onboard,” Southworth said.
Modern technology has brought a significant improvement to Metro, with the introduction of new digital display screens on some buses. This enhancement makes it easier for customers to know when they should get off.
Digital screen on Metro bus. Source: Olivia Welsh.
While discussions in the public focus on the productive impacts of public transport, the responsibility also lies with the Council and with experts in transport planning and management. This entails making bus services more appealing to both current and potential customers.
“The key issue with public transport is making sure it fits with people’s complex and diverse lifestyles,” said James Llewellyn, Managing Director of Taith Consulting Limited. Llewellyn reiterated how big of a challenge it is to persuade people that they could have a better lifestyle if they don’t use their car as much: saving money on fuel, and not having to find a car park.
By Aotearoa standards, Ōtautahi boasts a relatively accommodating bus service. Nevertheless, there is still a considerable amount to be deliberated and achieved.
Timaru is currently testing an on-demand public transport service, MyWay by Metro, which provides increased flexibility and accessibility to the public. This service is designed to supplant fixed-route buses and has received positive feedback thus far.
The possibility of reintroducing passenger trains to locations like Ōtautahi, where there is a high demand for diverse transportation options, has also been a topic of discussion.
“Provision of rail passenger services is worth investigating,” said Llewelyn when asked about the future of public transport.
The public transport vs private car debate. Source: Olivia Welsh.
“The benefits of public transport investment and promotion… are clear and numerous, but navigating the political landscape is a big hurdle at the moment,” said Nathan Balmer, a Master of Planning student.
Balmer noted how improved walkability, cycle infrastructure, and bus quality frequency should be the main deliverables.
While it’s a venture at the moment to resonate with the public, especially in their hearts and minds, it is not done in vain. Public transport does not just encompass environmental sustainability; it also includes a push for better human sustainability, where people have access to a mode of transportation that they can afford and utilise daily.
Efforts are currently underway to enhance the service and make it more attractive, encouraging people to opt for a relaxing bus ride over using their car. We have a long way to go, but we are on our way.