The cost of using public transport in the Bay of Plenty will get more expensive from Monday next week, as all bus fares will increase five per cent.
The changes will affect Bayhopper Tauranga, Cityride Rotorua and all rural services such as Bayhopper Eastern BOP.
Bay of Plenty Regional Councilreleased a statement this morning advising of the increase, stating the fare increase will start on January 9 to ensure a greater balance between user contributions and public funding in accordance with the region's Public Transport Policy.
The council manages the region's public transport service and stated it had held off increasing fares on most public transport services for over a year, however it must raise the fares now.
The Regional Council's transport policy manager Garry Maloney said the increase had been kept low at five per cent.
"Concessions will still be available for students, children and NZ Supergold Card holders with children under 5 years old still able to travel for free on all our services, as will all NZ Supergold Card holders (during off peak)," Mr Maloney said.
The increase equates to around a 5 to 20 cents per trip increase depending on whether users use the Smartride card entitling them to a discounted fare or pay the cash fare price.
To find out more about the new fares, go to www.baybus.co.nz or call 0800 422 928.
