Wellington

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Buses

Overview of Wellington's bus network, the main mode of public transport in the city and surrounding areas.

Sections

1. Categories of Bus Services

Wellington’s bus network is divided into several categories to cater to different needs:

  • Urban Bus Services: These are the most common buses, connecting Wellington’s suburbs to the central city. They operate frequently and cover most residential and commercial areas.
  • Express Services: These buses operate during peak hours and are designed for commuters. They make fewer stops, providing faster travel between key areas.
  • Night Buses: Night buses run on weekends (Friday and Saturday nights) to accommodate late-night travelers. They typically operate after regular services end.
  • Regional Services: These buses connect Wellington to surrounding areas such as Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, and the Kapiti Coast.
  • Airport Bus (Route 2 and Route 91): While there isn’t a dedicated airport shuttle, regular bus routes (like Route 2) and the Airport Express (Route 91) connect Wellington Airport to the city center and other areas.

2. Costs and Fares

Wellington uses a zone-based fare system, where the cost of your trip depends on the number of zones you travel through. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Adult Fares:
    • 1 Zone: NZD 2.50
    • 2 Zones: NZD 4.00
    • 3 Zones: NZD 5.50
    • Additional zones increase the fare incrementally.
  • Child Fares (5–18 years old): Half the adult fare.
  • Concessions: Discounts are available for students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Free Transfers: If you transfer between buses within 30 minutes, you won’t be charged for the second leg of your journey (as long as it’s within the same zone).

3. Ticketing Procedures and Payment Options

Wellington’s bus system offers several convenient ways to pay for your ride:

  • Snapper Card:

    • The Snapper card is the most popular and cost-effective way to pay for bus travel in Wellington.
    • It’s a reusable smart card that you can top up with credit at Snapper retailers, kiosks, or online.
    • Simply tap your Snapper card on the reader when you board and tap off when you exit to ensure you’re charged the correct fare.
    • Using a Snapper card gives you a discount compared to paying cash.

  • Cash:

    • You can pay with cash on the bus, but exact change is required as drivers do not provide change.
    • Cash fares are slightly more expensive than Snapper card fares.

  • Airport Express Payment:

    • The Airport Express (Route 91) accepts Snapper cards and cash, but fares are higher than regular bus routes.

4. Operating Hours

  • Weekdays: Most buses start operating around 6:00 AM and run until approximately 11:00 PM.
  • Weekends: Services start slightly later, around 7:00 AM, and end around 11:00 PM.
  • Night Buses: On Friday and Saturday nights, night buses operate until around 2:30 AM on select routes.

Frequency varies depending on the route and time of day. During peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM), buses run more frequently, especially on major routes.

5. Major Routes

Wellington’s bus network is extensive, but here are some key routes that are particularly useful for visitors and locals:

  • Route 1 (Island Bay to Johnsonville): A major north-south route passing through the city center, ideal for exploring central Wellington.
  • Route 2 (Seatoun to Karori): Connects the eastern suburbs, city center, and western suburbs. It also serves Wellington Airport.
  • Route 3 (Lyall Bay to Wellington Station): A popular route for accessing the southern suburbs and the central train station.
  • Route 91 (Airport Express): A direct service between Wellington Airport and the city center.
  • Route 7 (Kingston to Wellington Station): A convenient route for accessing the southern suburbs and the central city.

6. Accessibility for Tourists and Locals

Wellington’s buses are designed to be accessible for everyone:

  • Wheelchair Accessibility: Most buses are equipped with low floors and ramps, making them wheelchair-friendly.
  • Bike Racks: Many buses have bike racks on the front, allowing cyclists to combine biking and bus travel.
  • Real-Time Information: Bus stops display real-time arrival information, and the Metlink app provides live updates on bus locations and schedules.
  • Tourist-Friendly Stops: Key tourist destinations like Te Papa Museum, Wellington Cable Car, and Zealandia are easily accessible by bus.

7. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Bus Etiquette:
    • Greet the driver when boarding and thank them when exiting. This is a common courtesy in New Zealand.
    • Allow passengers to exit the bus before boarding.
    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
  • Quiet Zones: Keep noise levels low, especially during peak hours. Avoid loud phone conversations or playing music without headphones.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not expected on buses.
  • Weather Preparedness: Wellington is known for its windy weather, so dress appropriately when waiting at bus stops.

8. Tips for Tourists

  • Plan Your Journey: Use the Metlink website (www.metlink.org.nz) or the Metlink app to plan your trip, check schedules, and view fare information.
  • Snapper Card for Visitors: If you’re staying in Wellington for more than a day or two, consider purchasing a Snapper card to save money and time.
  • Explore Beyond the City: Use regional buses to visit nearby attractions like the Hutt Valley, Porirua, or the Kapiti Coast.
  • Off-Peak Travel: If possible, travel outside peak hours to avoid crowded buses and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

9. Contact Information

For assistance or more information:

  • Metlink Customer Service: 0800 801 700
  • Website: www.metlink.org.nz
  • Social Media: Metlink regularly updates its Twitter and Facebook pages with service alerts and updates.

By following this guide, you’ll find it easy to navigate Wellington’s bus system and make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Safe travels!