7 Aug 2009

Aucklanders keen on using public transport

9:52 am on 7 August 2009

Aucklanders are using public transport more than at any time since the 1980s and are travelling more by train than any time since records began.

Public transport passenger numbers for the year to June reached more than 58 million trips, a 7.7% increase on the previous year.

Following an increase in services, rail use jumped by 97% in the past five years.

A survey suggests vehicle running costs are a factor in the decision of about one in six passengers to take a bus or train.

People also cited the lack of stress involved in using public transport as a reason why they used it.

The survey, carried out by research company Gravitas for the Auckland Regional Transport Authority, shows satisfaction levels rising from 71% in 2005 to 84% this year.

It indicates a high level of loyalty among public transport users, with 91% of respondents likely to recommend using their chosen mode of transport and 96% likely to use public transport again.