The Transport Agency is telling bus and train providers to take in more money, which could force fare hikes.

Wellington's Regional Council is rejecting the call from NZTA.

Transport Committee Chair Thomas Nash says it would mean unaffordable 70 percent fare increases during a cost of living crisis. 

"You'd end up just pushing people back into cars, more people will be on the road and it would be more congested - which I think is the opposite of what we need."

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