Did someone say it’s spring! Of course it is, but I can’t say I’m out of my winter woolies yet!
However, I have been a bit hot under the collar over the upcoming introduction of wider Road User Charges (RUC). Let’s be clear, I’m not against them; roads and their maintenance need to be paid for, but I see difficulties ahead especially for volunteer drivers.
I understand the Government is looking at 2027 to introduce changes which will see drivers of all light vehicles – petrol, hybrid, diesel and electric – paying for road use based on distance travelled and vehicle weight, instead of being charged at the pump.
At present RUC apply only to vehicles not powered wholly by petrol, and all vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes.
Transport Minister, Chris Bishop has said the number of fuel-efficient petrol/hybrid vehicles in NZ has jumped from 12,000 in 2015 to 350,000. He said it wasn’t fair to have Kiwis, who drive less and who couldn’t afford a fuel-efficient car, paying more than people who could afford one and who drive more often.
While, the change is seen as good in principle more detail is needed. As yet we do not know actual pricing although it has been suggested new charges will be offset, at least in part, by fuel tax being removed from petrol.
I know there is more detail to come, but my concern is how will motorists on limited income be affected? And, how will it impact people who cannot afford a hybrid or electric car but still need to cover long distances?
Will volunteer drivers, who ferry people to hospital and GP appointments or take them shopping, decide they can no longer provide the service because of the charge on distances travelled?
Others, who travel some way to regularly visit family in care, may also be impacted not to mention those who have moved to more affordable housing districts but are now further away from their work.
In my mind, the new system will need to be supported by excellent public transport which NZ just does not have. What’s more, public transport doesn’t solve travel problems for more infirm seniors.
These are just a few difficulties I foresee for those on fixed or limited incomes. Will the need to keep monthly road user charges in check end up costing in other ways?
That’s all for this time, enjoy spring.