Fares down, but bus pressure tipped to rise

Bus users are being asked to mind the time when they catch the bus, as an increase in passenger numbers because of a fare cut is expected to add to pressure from a driver shortage. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH

But with an expected increase in passengers, bus users are being asked to avoid peak times because of a driver shortage.

Otago Regional Council transport manager Doug Rodgers said the half-price bus fares would start tomorrow for passengers in Dunedin and Queenstown.

The council was pleased to offer the three-month fare cut and expected more people would want to catch the bus, especially at peak times.

Passengers were being asked to plan for full buses as services were already disrupted by Covid-19.

A nationwide driver shortage along with a recent increase in capacity for school services meant the council was unable to provide extra services.

The change meant some services would be at full capacity well before they got to their destination, he said.

Passengers, including new ones attracted by the reduced price, were being asked to keep that in mind.

Those who could travel outside peak times were asked to do so, as being flexible would help those who could not move their travel times.

The peak times in Dunedin were 7.30am-9am and 2.45pm-5.30pm.

The new $1 fare would only apply to adult passengers travelling with Bee Cards, but children's fares and cash fares would also be reduced by half.

Total Mobility journeys were also included and would have the additional discount applied on top of the current subsidy, Mr Rodgers said.

The Government announced plans for the reduction as a way to offset the rising cost of living, including rising fuel costs.

oscar.francis@odt.co.nz