Auckland Transport has announced that public transport fares in Auckland will increase by approximately 6.5% from April 2.

The fare increase, which is the first in two years, will see shorter-distance fares rise by about 8%, while longer-distance fares will increase by 3% to 5%.

Despite the increase, half-price fares will remain in place.

The average increase has been kept below inflation and operating cost increases, according to AT's interim chief executive Mark Lambert.

However, he notes that the cost of operating bus, train, or ferry services has significantly increased since 2021.

The number of people catching public transport and paying fares has also reduced due to multiple Covid-19 lockdowns and an increase in people working from home, resulting in a significant funding gap.

AT is seeking extra funding from multiple sources, but a small percentage of this funding gap will have to be covered by customers.

Meanwhile, commuters travelling from Auckland's North Shore to the CBD are growing increasingly frustrated with overcrowded buses and widespread cancellations.

Multiple people who travel along the city's Northern Busway have reported seeing up to six buses in a row skip stops as they're too full.

A large number of services have also been cancelled, leaving commuters stuck until a bus actually arrives.

AT has stated that the reason for overcrowding and cancellations is due to school, university, and work resuming after the summer, adding strain to their system.

The recently introduced new Auckland Transport logo.

The transport agency is currently at a shortfall of 380 drivers, compared to more than 500 before Christmas.

They are encouraging commuters to plan ahead and expect delays when using their system.

Overall, Auckland Transport's recent announcement of fare increases and ongoing overcrowding issues have not been well-received by the public.

With many commuters already struggling with the effects of the pandemic, the added strain of rising fares and unreliable services is sure to be a cause for concern.