The ORC has approved an interim $2 flat fare proposal for Dunedin buses.

Based on community feedback, the Council also agreed to reduce child fares for youth aged 5-18 years to $1.20, from the proposed $1.50.

The proposal received 1,431 submissions—over 1,300 of which were in support—and 20 submitters presented at hearings held on 28 July.

What does that mean?

That means that on 1 September, when we start charging fares and using the Bee Card, fares will be cheaper for most bus users in Dunedin. There will be massive cost savings to those who travel across multiple zones, for example from Mosgiel to the Bus Hub.

The flat fare makes all of Dunedin one zone, with one fare per single trip.

Not only will it be cheaper for most people, but also easier to calculate and pay. With the Bee Card offering an easy tag on tag off system and online topping up, catching a bus in Dunedin will be easy!

The fares from 1 September*

Approximately 70% of passengers travel two zones or more. The previous one zone fare with a GoCard was $1.92 for adults and $1.15 for children, while across two zones it was $2.53 per adult and $1.52 per child. SuperGold Card holders travelled free between 9am and 3pm.

Some other important things to note

• You can still in interact with drivers if you want to pay by cash, ask a question or pay for multiple people.
• Registering your Bee Card will give you benefits like getting your concession discount and topping up online. Note that you don’t need to register to be able to use your Bee Card.
• Topping up online can take up to 12 hours so don’t wait until the last minute.
• A free transfer is valid within 45 minutes of transferring from one bus to the next.
• If you forget to tag off with your Bee Card, the system will charge you a cash fare of $3.

ORC Chair of the Otago Regional Transport Committee, Cr Alexa Forbes, said the community overwhelmingly supported the proposal.

“But we also heard concerns about the cost to passengers who would normally travel one zone. That’s why we have agreed with the hearing panel recommendation to reduce child fares from the proposed $1.50 to $1.20.

“It’s a great way to launch the Bee Card and supports our commitment to making public transport more convenient and accessible in the city.”

Buses at Alert Level 2

As Otago moved to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 on Wednesday, 1 metre physical distancing has been required on buses. Please pick an alternative seat and take your driver’s advice if you are still catching the bus. Be considerate and kind to fellow passengers and, above all, do not travel by bus if you are feeling unwell.

When this article went to press COVID-19 requirements on buses were developing. To keep up to date, follow us on Facebook or call 0800 ORBUSDN (672 8736). You can also see answers to questions at www.orc.govt.nz/public-transport/covid-19