ORC Transport Manager Doug Rodgers said, “We are pleased to be able to offer half price fares and expect more people will want to jump on, especially at peak times. However, services are already disrupted so if more people catch the bus than usual, we may hit full capacity on individual routes well before they get to their destination.

“Due to drivers isolating or being ill due to COVID, a national driver shortage, and the recent increase in capacity provided for school services, we will be unable to provide extra services.

“We are asking our passengers, including new ones attracted by the price, to keep this in mind.”

Mr Rodgers said some people need to catch a bus to get around.

“So, if you can travel outside of peak times, please do so. Being flexible helps those who cannot move their travel times, for instance, shift workers, students and retail and hospitality workers,“ he said.

Peak times in Dunedin are 7.30 am to 9 am in the morning and 2.45 pm to 5.30 pm at the other end of the day. The afternoon peak starts early as school students travel home or to activities after school.

Caption: The graph below shows peak time travel periods for Dunedin and Queenstown.

Mr Rodgers also reminded people that the $1 fare was with Bee Cards only and that those who paid with cash would pay more than $1. All cash fares in Dunedin are $3, and in Queenstown are $4 (except airport fare).

From Friday, Bee Card bus fares for adults in Dunedin and Queenstown will be $1. Cash fares and children’s fares are also reduced by half. The reduced fare will be automatically applied when tagging on with a Bee Card or paying your driver with cash.

Total Mobility journeys are also included and will have the additional discount applied on top of the current subsidy.

Those wanting more information on updated services should follow Orbus Dunedin on Facebook and check out the public transport pages on the ORC website.

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