Kiwis steer clear of public transport

For some reason, New Zealanders just do not like using buses.

Their use of public transport rates among the world's lowest in per capita comparisons with other cities, according to a report by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority.

It shows that the use of public transport - buses, trains or ferries - is declining while private car ownership appears to be rocketing.

Between 1991 and 1998, the number of private cars increased 35 per cent, from 1.54 million to nearly 2.08 million.

The total of all licensed vehicles increased 29 per cent, from 2.35 million to 3.03 million.

Bus numbers went up 48 per cent but the report, citing a Canterbury Regional Council study, also shows a decline in public transport use.

The study surveyed the main method of getting to work in New Zealand's three biggest cities between 1991 and 1996.

In Auckland, 7.3 per cent chose public transport (7.6 per cent in 1991) and 87 per cent private transport (up from 85 per cent).

In Christchurch, 4.2 per cent used public transport (down from 4.7 per cent) and 83 per cent private (up from 80 per cent).

Wellington's geography may be the reason for a blip in the graph - 15.5 per cent chose public transport (up from 15 per cent), and 73 per cent private transport (down from 74 per cent).