PHOTO
Dunedinites will follow in Queenstown’s footsteps in paying a $2 flat fare for bus trips.
The Otago Regional Council yesterday voted to adopt a flat-fare structure, following the move from the Covid-19 free-fare services to the new Bee Card ticketing system.
The system will be introduced, subject to public consultation, as a short-term trial within Dunedin’s public bus network.
ORC chairwoman Marian Hobbs said she was pleased with the decision.
‘‘I am delighted about this move on our fares and with the Bee Card because this is one step towards lowering climate change emissions.’’
Cr Michael Deaker said the new structure would be positive for social equity, climate change, the Dunedin City Council’s street network and in light of the city’s hospital rebuild.
Many elements were affecting how people moved around the city, and making buses more accessible would help that, he said.
On all trips, adults will pay $2 and children $1.50 when using a Bee Card, and cash fares will cost $3.
SuperGold card holders will be able to travel for free at all times, and the Queenstown airport $10 cash fare will be reduced to $4.
In order to amend its regional public transport plan, the ORC will consult the public next month, with the aim of introducing the new fares in July.