Abstract
Transport poverty is an urgent public health issue in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), intensified by rising fuel price and cost of living pressures. Many households already spend a large proportion of their budgets on transport, and rising fuel costs mean people either absorb higher expenses or miss essential trips.
Missed trips reduce opportunities to access healthcare, education, food, employment and social connections – key determinants of health. Absorbing increased fuel costs can force trade-offs such as cutting back on food or home heating, with well documented physical and mental health consequences.
Central and local government investment in a healthy and sustainable transport system that reduces reliance on private vehicles will make us more resilient to fuel price increases. This can be achieved through urban planning, investment in walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure, and tailored rural mobility solutions. These approaches reduce health inequities associated with transport poverty, reduce exposure to fuel price shocks and support healthier communities.