Some Dunedin public transport bus fares rose yesterday as the new southern routes bus system came into effect, and GoCard discounts have become more attractive.
More buses were introduced on the more direct routes, via a new Green Island ''super stop'', to central Dunedin.
But some southern bus patrons have voiced concern about the loss of the previous direct access to South Dunedin, with transfer to another bus now required to reach South Dunedin via the southern routes.
Go Bus Transport has gained the contract for the southern routes, which comprise nearly 20% of Dunedin's overall public transport bus network.
Go Bus regional general manager Ben Barlow, of Dunedin, said implementation of the new southern bus routes had proved ''very successful'' yesterday.
Considerable preparation had gone into familiarising drivers with the new routes, and bus drivers were excited to become part of the planned new-look public transport system, Mr Barlow said.
Adult GoCard fares rose by less than 5%, ranging from no rise in several zones, including zones three and four, to 4.3% for zone one travel.
Some adult cash fares rose by up to 11%, for zone two travel, to $3; with a 10% rise to $2.20 for zone one travel, but with no increase in several zones, including three and four.
And the benefit for adults and youngsters using GoCard fares also increased, with the adult discount rising from about 10% previously to more than 12% generally, and more than 15% for adult two zone travel.
City bus fares had previously not risen for three years, an Otago Regional Council spokesman said.
