Dunedin

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Ticketing

Overview of how to purchase and use tickets for public transportation services in Dunedin.

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Dunedin

Dunedinโ€™s public transport system is primarily operated by buses. There are no trains or trams for public transport within the city. The bus network is managed by the Otago Regional Council (ORC) under the brand name Orbus.

Key Features of Dunedinโ€™s Public Transport:

  • Coverage: The bus network covers the central city, suburbs, and some outlying areas.
  • Frequency: Buses run regularly, though frequency may vary depending on the route and time of day. Peak hours have more frequent services, while evenings and weekends may have reduced schedules.
  • Accessibility: Most buses are wheelchair accessible.

2. Ticketing System

Dunedin uses a combination of cash fares and a contactless smart card system called the Bee Card for bus travel.

Ticketing Options:

  1. Bee Card (Recommended):

    • The Bee Card is a reusable, contactless smart card that offers discounted fares compared to paying with cash.
    • It is the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel on Dunedin buses.
    • You can load money onto the card and tap it on the card reader when boarding and alighting the bus.

  2. Cash Fares:

    • You can pay for your bus fare in cash directly to the driver.
    • However, cash fares are more expensive than Bee Card fares, and exact change is required.

3. Ticketing Costs

The cost of bus travel in Dunedin depends on whether you use a Bee Card or pay with cash. Below are the current fare details (as of 2023):

Bee Card Fares:

  • Adult: NZD 2.00 per trip
  • Child (5-18 years): NZD 1.20 per trip
  • SuperGold Card Holders (Seniors): Free travel during off-peak hours (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM and after 6:30 PM on weekdays, all day on weekends and public holidays)
  • Transfers: Free within 45 minutes of tapping off your first bus.

Cash Fares:

  • Adult: NZD 3.50 per trip
  • Child (5-18 years): NZD 2.00 per trip
  • SuperGold Card Holders: Same as Bee Card (free during off-peak hours).

Children Under 5: Travel free on all buses.

4. How to Purchase Tickets

Bee Card:

  • Where to Get a Bee Card:

    • Online at the official Bee Card website: www.beecard.co.nz
    • In person at the Otago Regional Council Office or participating retailers (e.g., convenience stores or supermarkets).
    • Some bus drivers may also sell Bee Cards, but availability is not guaranteed.

  • Cost of a Bee Card:

    • The card itself costs NZD 5.00 (non-refundable).
    • You will need to load a minimum of NZD 5.00 onto the card when purchasing it.

  • How to Top Up:

    • Online via the Bee Card website.
    • At participating retailers.
    • On the bus (cash top-ups are accepted, but exact change is required).

Cash Fares:

  • Simply pay the driver in cash when boarding the bus. Remember to carry exact change, as drivers do not provide change.

5. Local Procedures and Considerations

  • Tapping On and Off: If you are using a Bee Card, you must tap your card on the reader when boarding the bus and tap off when exiting. This ensures you are charged the correct fare.
  • Exact Change for Cash Fares: If you choose to pay with cash, make sure to have the exact amount, as drivers do not carry change.
  • Timetables and Routes: Bus timetables and route maps are available online on the Otago Regional Council website or through the Transit app (a popular app for public transport in New Zealand).
  • Public Holidays: Bus services may operate on a reduced schedule during public holidays, so check ahead of time.

6. Other Transportation Options in Dunedin

While buses are the primary mode of public transport, there are other ways to get around Dunedin:

Taxis and Ridesharing:

  • Taxis: Available but can be expensive compared to buses.
  • Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Ola operate in Dunedin and are often more affordable than taxis.

Cycling:

  • Dunedin is a bike-friendly city, with several cycling paths and bike racks available. However, the cityโ€™s hilly terrain can be challenging for some cyclists.

Walking:

  • The central city is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

Car Rentals:

  • Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore areas outside Dunedin, such as the Otago Peninsula or nearby towns.

7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Plan Ahead: Use the Otago Regional Council website or apps like Transit to plan your journey and check bus schedules.
  • Bee Card Registration: Register your Bee Card online to protect your balance in case the card is lost or stolen.
  • Weather Considerations: Dunedin can be cold and rainy, so dress appropriately when waiting for buses.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Be polite to bus drivers and other passengers. Itโ€™s customary to thank the driver when exiting the bus.

8. Useful Resources

  • Otago Regional Council (Orbus): www.orc.govt.nz
  • Bee Card Website: www.beecard.co.nz
  • Transit App: Available for download on iOS and Android for real-time bus tracking and route planning.

By using the Bee Card and familiarizing yourself with the bus network, youโ€™ll find it easy and affordable to navigate Dunedin. Let me know if you need further assistance or details!