Hobart

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Buses

Public bus services in Hobart that cover urban and surrounding regional areas.

Sections

1. Overview of Bus Services in Hobart

Metro Tasmania operates the majority of public bus services in Hobart, connecting the city center with suburbs, nearby towns, and key destinations. The bus system is well-suited for both residents and visitors, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to travel around the city.

  • Key Features:
    • Buses are modern, clean, and accessible, with low-floor buses for wheelchair and pram access.
    • Services cover Hobart’s central business district (CBD), suburbs, and nearby areas like Glenorchy, Kingston, and Rosny Park.
    • Some routes extend to regional areas, such as New Norfolk and Huonville.

2. Ticket Costs and Fare Structure

Metro Tasmania uses a zone-based fare system, where the cost of your trip depends on the number of zones you travel through. Fares are categorized into Adult, Concession, and Student rates.

Ticket Types:

  1. Single-Trip Tickets:

    • Valid for one journey within a specific number of zones.
    • Adult fares start at approximately $2.40 for one zone and increase with additional zones.
    • Concession fares are discounted (around 50% off adult fares).

  2. Day Pass:

    • Unlimited travel for one day across all zones.
    • Costs approximately $5.80 for adults and $2.90 for concession holders.

  3. Greencard (Smart Card):

    • A reusable smart card offering discounted fares (around 20% cheaper than cash tickets).
    • Greencard fares start at $1.92 for one zone (adult).
    • Free transfers are allowed within 90 minutes of your first tap-on.

Where to Buy Tickets:

  • Single-trip tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver (cash only).
  • Greencards can be obtained online, at Metro Shops (e.g., in the Hobart CBD), or at selected retailers.

3. Payment Methods

  • Cash: Accepted for single-trip tickets when boarding the bus. Exact change is preferred.
  • Greencard: The most convenient and cost-effective option. Simply tap on when boarding and tap off when alighting.
  • Online Top-Up: Greencards can be reloaded online, via the Metro Tasmania app, or at designated outlets.

4. Operating Hours

  • Weekdays: Buses generally operate from around 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with some routes starting earlier or finishing later.
  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Services are less frequent, with buses typically running from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • Night Services: Limited late-night services are available on Fridays and Saturdays on popular routes.

5. Major Routes and Destinations

Hobart’s bus network is designed to connect key areas efficiently. Below are some major routes and destinations:

Key Routes:

  1. Route 500/501/502 (Glenorchy to Hobart):

    • A high-frequency route connecting the northern suburb of Glenorchy with the Hobart CBD.
    • Stops include Moonah and New Town.

  2. Route 601/605/615 (Kingston to Hobart):

    • Serves the southern suburb of Kingston and Blackmans Bay.
    • A popular route for commuters and visitors heading to the southern beaches.

  3. Route 634/635 (Eastern Shore to Hobart):

    • Connects Rosny Park, Bellerive, and Howrah on the Eastern Shore with the city center.

  4. Route 722/726 (Huon Valley to Hobart):

    • Regional routes serving Huonville and surrounding areas.

  5. Route 200/202/210 (Sandy Bay to Hobart):

    • Covers Sandy Bay, a suburb home to the University of Tasmania and popular residential areas.

Key Stops:

  • Hobart Bus Mall (Elizabeth Street): The central hub for most bus routes in the city.
  • Rosny Park Interchange: A major stop for buses traveling to the Eastern Shore.
  • Glenorchy Interchange: A key hub for northern suburbs.

6. Practical and Cultural Tips

  • Plan Your Journey: Use the Metro Tasmania website or app to check timetables, plan routes, and track buses in real-time.
  • Be Punctual: Buses in Hobart generally run on time, so arrive at your stop a few minutes early.
  • Boarding and Alighting: Signal the driver by raising your hand as the bus approaches. Press the stop button when you’re nearing your destination.
  • Respect Local Etiquette:
    • Greet the driver when boarding and thank them when alighting.
    • Offer priority seating to elderly passengers, people with disabilities, or parents with young children.
  • Quiet Zones: Keep phone conversations and noise levels low to respect other passengers.
  • Weather Considerations: Hobart’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately, especially if you’ll be waiting at outdoor stops.

7. Unique Features of Hobart’s Bus System

  • Environmentally Friendly Fleet: Metro Tasmania is transitioning to more sustainable buses, including hybrid and electric models.
  • Scenic Routes: Many bus routes offer stunning views of Hobart’s natural beauty, such as the Derwent River, Mount Wellington, and surrounding countryside.
  • Limited Public Transport Options: Unlike larger Australian cities, Hobart does not have trains or trams. Buses are the primary mode of public transport, so they are well-integrated and widely used.

8. Additional Resources

  • Metro Tasmania Website: www.metrotas.com.au – For timetables, fare information, and route maps.
  • Metro Tasmania App: Available for iOS and Android, offering real-time bus tracking and trip planning.
  • Tourist Information Centers: Staff can provide maps and advice on using public transport.

By understanding the bus system in Hobart, you’ll find it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or settling in as a new resident, the buses provide a reliable and affordable way to get around.