Grey Power spokesperson Keith Wood says senior residents are getting a poor deal relative to other centres and face an effective public transport ban during key hours.
“Elderly Kāpiti residents continue to be disadvantaged using public transport,” says Mr Wood.
“The period between 3pm and 6.30pm on weekdays presents a significant barrier for Greater Wellington area SuperGold card holders.”
Mr Wood says this exclusionary period for SuperGold car holders on public transport does not apply in Auckland or Christchurch.
“The exclusion effectively prevents many older people from using public transport for essential activities like attending appointments, social engagements, or returning home during these hours when services are often more frequent,” says Mr Wood.
“This restriction disproportionately impacts their independence and access to the community, essentially creating a ‘blackout’ on their mobility during a key part of the day.”
Mr Wood says this situation has gone on for years and needs to be addressed with a positive transport outcome.