Resources

Essential transport gives people access to things they need to get and do. What are its costs, and can all Kiwis afford it?

In this study, the researchers:

• did a literature review
• analysed journey data
• interviewed staff from a variety of agencies
• interviewed New Zealanders affected by the cost of essential transport.

They found that:

• ‘essential transport’ is different for different people and contexts
• about 3% of adults did not take an important journey in the last week because they couldn’t afford it
• not taking an important journey affected people’s lives in four main areas: education, employment, medical care and getting food
• not taking an important journey often has both immediate and longer-term negative effects on a person.

The researchers’ findings will help with planning and investment decisions on changing transport costs and ensuring they’re fair for vulnerable households.

Keywords:

essential transport, essential travel, transport disadvantage, transport poverty

Authors:

A Dudding, Ipsos New Zealand
S Beccari, Ipsos New Zealand
N Vink, Ipsos New Zealand
K Lindsey, Ipsos New Zealand