I'd say ONE of the problems re the crowds, is the team currently lacks a star quality X factor import, to add a few to the gate. Of recent times, no Hooper, Taylor, Hemed (all ex EPL) or Davila who went on to be a genuine Nix star.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/130418034/wellington-phoenix-stunned-by-western-uniteds-late-show-in-32-aleague-loss
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/130418034/wellington-phoenix-stunned-by-western-uniteds-late-show-in-32-aleague-loss