The cost of riding Marlborough buses has gone up slightly.
It now costs 10 cents more for both adults and children to use the buses in Blenheim, 30 cents more for adults using the Picton bus and 10 cents more for children.
The fare increases are required by NZTA and came into effect on 1 July.
The increase is in response to escalating operational expenses and the need to maintain the public transport service Marlborough Roads Manager Wayne Oldfield said.
“The new fare has been calculated to introduce a modest increase and to reasonably align with NZTA’s directive,” he said.
Public transport costs in Marlborough have increased due to inflation, fuel prices and maintenance expenses. To date these have been absorbed by NZTA and Council. To sustain service levels and meet NZTA financial obligations, a fare increase was necessary Mr Oldfield said.
SuperGold card holders and children under five can still ride on the buses for free between 9am and 3pm.
Fares for Blenheim north and south routes have gone up from $2.40 from $2.50 and child fares from $1.20 to $1.30. Picton fares are now $5.10 (previously $4.80) for adults and children are now $2.50 (previously $2.40)
