Hamilton

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Ticketing

A breakdown of ticketing systems for public transportation, including payment methods and fare options.

Sections

Public Transportation in Hamilton

Hamiltonโ€™s public transportation is operated by Busit, which is managed by the Waikato Regional Council. The bus network connects the cityโ€™s suburbs, central business district (CBD), and key locations such as the University of Waikato, Waikato Hospital, and The Base shopping center. There are also regional bus services connecting Hamilton to nearby towns.

Ticketing System Overview

Hamilton uses a combination of cash fares and a contactless smart card system called the Bee Card for bus travel. The Bee Card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to pay for bus rides.

1. Bee Card

  • The Bee Card is a reusable, preloaded smart card that allows passengers to pay for bus fares with a simple tap on and tap off system.
  • It is valid across multiple regions in New Zealand, including Hamilton, making it a versatile option for travelers.

Key Features:

  • Cheaper fares compared to paying with cash.
  • Easy to top up online, at designated locations, or on the bus (cash only for on-bus top-ups).
  • Can be registered online to protect your balance if the card is lost or stolen.

2. Cash Fares

  • Passengers can pay for bus rides using cash, but this is more expensive than using the Bee Card.
  • Exact change is required as drivers do not provide change.

Ticket Types and Costs

The cost of bus fares in Hamilton depends on whether you use a Bee Card or pay with cash. Below are the fare details as of 2023:

Bee Card Fares (Per Trip):

  • Adult: NZD 2.40
  • Child (5-18 years): NZD 1.70
  • Tertiary Student (with valid ID): NZD 1.70
  • SuperGold Card Holders (off-peak travel): Free
  • Transfers: Free within 2 hours of the first trip.

Cash Fares (Per Trip):

  • Adult: NZD 3.50
  • Child (5-18 years): NZD 2.50
  • Tertiary Student (with valid ID): NZD 2.50

Children Under 5:

  • Travel free on all buses.

Daily and Weekly Caps:

  • The Bee Card has a daily cap of NZD 7.20 for adults and NZD 5.10 for children/students. This means you wonโ€™t pay more than this amount in a single day, no matter how many trips you take.
  • Weekly caps are also available, making it cost-effective for frequent travelers.

How to Obtain a Bee Card

  1. Online:

    • Visit the Bee Card website (www.beecard.co.nz) to order a card.
    • You can register your card online to manage your balance and protect it in case of loss.

  2. In Person:

    • Purchase a Bee Card at the Hamilton Transport Centre (located at 5 Bryce Street, Hamilton Central).
    • Cards are also available at selected retail outlets and libraries in Hamilton.

  3. Cost:

    • The Bee Card costs NZD 5 (one-time purchase fee).
    • You will need to load a minimum balance of NZD 5 when purchasing the card.

How to Use the Bee Card

  1. Topping Up:

    • Online: Log in to your Bee Card account and add funds using a debit/credit card.
    • In Person: Top up at the Hamilton Transport Centre or on the bus (cash only).
    • Minimum top-up amount: NZD 5.

  2. Using the Card:

    • Tap your Bee Card on the card reader when boarding the bus.
    • Tap off when exiting to ensure you are charged the correct fare.

Payment Options

  • Bee Card: Preloaded funds can be added online or in person.
  • Cash: Accepted on buses for single fares and Bee Card top-ups (exact change required).
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Can be used for online Bee Card top-ups but not directly on buses.

Local Tips and Considerations

  1. Plan Your Journey:

    • Use the Busit website (www.busit.co.nz) or the Transit app to plan your trips, check bus routes, and view real-time bus tracking.

  2. Peak and Off-Peak Travel:

    • Buses can be busier during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM), especially on routes serving the University of Waikato and Waikato Hospital.

  3. SuperGold Card Holders:

    • If you are a New Zealand resident aged 65 or older, you can travel for free during off-peak hours (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM and after 6:30 PM on weekdays, all day on weekends and public holidays).

  4. Accessibility:

    • Most buses in Hamilton are wheelchair accessible and have space for prams or strollers.

  5. Regional Travel:

    • If you plan to travel to nearby towns (e.g., Cambridge, Te Awamutu, or Raglan), check the regional bus schedules and fares on the Busit website. The Bee Card can also be used for these services.

  6. Cycling and Walking:

    • Hamilton is a bike-friendly city with dedicated cycling paths. Consider combining cycling with bus travel for greater flexibility.

  7. Parking at the Transport Centre:

    • If youโ€™re driving to the Hamilton Transport Centre to catch a bus, there are parking facilities nearby, but fees may apply.

Conclusion

The Bee Card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to navigate Hamiltonโ€™s public transportation system. It offers discounted fares, daily and weekly caps, and free transfers within two hours. For visitors, purchasing a Bee Card upon arrival is highly recommended, as it simplifies travel and reduces costs. Always plan your journey in advance using the Busit website or app, and consider off-peak travel to avoid crowds. With these tips, youโ€™ll find Hamiltonโ€™s public transportation system easy to use and efficient for getting around the city.