Summarised by Centrist
Wellington City Council’s recent installation of two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Island Bay, costing $98,000, has started a furore over public funds being used to “subsidise” wealthier EV owners.
The chargers are part of the council’s “Charged Up Capital” programme. They were installed opposite a New World supermarket in September. However, with 34 chargers installed so far the programme faces budget cuts and possible cancellation.
Since opening, the stations have been used only 128 times, raising questions about demand and accessibility.
Local councillor Nureddin Abdurahman criticised the initiative as “tone deaf and out of touch” with those who struggle with parking in the area. “It makes me angry,” he said, noting that limited parking affects seniors, the disabled, and families in Island Bay more than Tesla owners.
Council members have voiced similar concerns, with councillor Sarah Free acknowledging that EVs are still costly and stating that prioritising parking for EV chargers could be seen as an “equity” issue.
