The Bus Funding Divide: Greens Call for Regional Transport Reinstatement

The Green Party is calling on the government to reinstate cancelled bus upgrades in regional New Zealand as high fuel prices bite, highlighting a major funding gap between Auckland and other regions.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 15, 2026, 4:52 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The "Auckland vs. Regions" Gap

Figures from the Transport Minister's office show that of the funding approved for new public transport investments under the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), approximately 70% went to Auckland.

Funding Approved vs. Rejected:

Auckland: $95.7 million approved (99% of request).

Wellington: $25.5 million rejected.

Taranaki: $7.4 million rejected.