Until November 26, residents can ride any of Ritchies-operated buses on the four new routes, which cover the majority of the Wakatipu, for free, and also collect a complimentary GoCard.
From November 27 GoCards could be bought for $5 from the Milford Sound Scenic Flights desk at Queenstown Airport, at the O'Connells Mall kiosk on Camp St, or - in cash only - on any Orbus.
Card holders could put money on their cards at the airport desk, kiosk, or, in cash, on the bus - the minimum top-up is $10.
Next year a ticketing system would be introduced which would enable online top-ups.
GoCard holders can hop on any Orbus, swipe their card, and ride the bus to any destination in the network for a flat $2 one-way fee, with a free 30-minute ''onward transfer'' included.
As part of the changes being introduced next year, a ''tag on, tag off'' system would be implemented.
Cash fares are also available. It would cost $5 for an adult and $4 for a child to hop on an Orbus, or $10 for adults and $8 for children travelling to Queenstown Airport.
Commuters would be able to locate their nearest bus stop and keep an eye on the one they want to catch using NZTA's free Choice app.
The new service aims to reduce traffic congestion in the Wakatipu and provide an affordable alternative to driving.
Information on the new routes, timetables and other information will be dropped in mailboxes across the Wakatipu this weekend. They would also be available at QLDC's reception area in Gorge Rd.
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Comments
So according to the timetable it will take me at least 35 minutes to get from Lake Hayes Estate to Queenstown including a ten minute wait at Frankton for a connection to Queenstown with a bus every half hour at peak times. Sorry but it's not exactly enticing me to stop using a car when it takes only 15 minutes to get to town and a 5 minute walk from a free car park.