Councillors yesterday endorsed consultation about a proposed new zone-based fare system, fare capping, and the possibility of removing the ability to use cash to pay for fares. This follows a workshop earlier this month about the changes.

ORC’s Transport Portfolio Co-lead Cr Alan Somerville says during the consultation between 13 July and 29 July 2026 people will be asked to choose zone options for both networks.

“The proposed zone system will mean longer trips will generally cost a bit more than shorter trips, better reflecting paying for the distance people travel. At the moment, the adult bus fare with the Bee Card in Dunedin and Queenstown is $2.50, regardless of the distance travelled,” says Cr Somerville.

“The proposed zone structure is much simpler than the one used in Dunedin in the past and we are keen to hear from the public about whether the zones are simple and easy to understand. Allowing for these zones will enable us to move much effectively into further regional public transport.”

The Council is also considering introducing fare capping. This rewards frequent bus use by capping the maximum amount you pay for travel over a certain period (day, week or month).

“We’re keen to understand whether people prefer keeping the base fare at $2.50 or increasing the base fare to introduce fare capping, so frequent travel in a day or week is rewarded.”

People will also be asked about the proposed removal of cash fares as a way of paying for fares, as the introduction of Motu Move in 2027 means they will be able to pay for fares using most bank cards.

“Consultation will help us understand how all these changes could affect bus users.”

A decision on the new zone and fare changes will be considered by the Council in September. If approved, they be phased in between October 2026 and mid- 2027.

The proposed changes follow feedback and council direction ORC received while developing its Regional Public Transport Plan. During the RPTP consultation, many people supported zones, commenting it was unfair for people travelling a short distance to pay the same fares as someone travelling further.