Integrated fares launching for ferries
Ferry customers will soon have a simpler and more affordable journey across Auckland Transport's (AT) network.
Starting Sunday 26 July 2020, ferry fares will be joining AT Metro's integrated fare system. This means customers can transfer between buses, trains and ferries and pay just once for their entire journey when they tag on and off with their AT HOP card.
"Integrated fares make it simpler and cheaper to use public transport," says Auckland Mayor Phil Goff.
"Encouraging more people to use public transport will help lower carbon emissions and mean that those who do drive experience reduced traffic congestion.
"While the introduction of integrated fares was delayed due to the COVID-19 lockdowns, it's good to see it being rolled out now as more Aucklanders return to using public transport to get around our city."
The integrated fares scheme was originally scheduled to come into effect in the second half of 2021, but the launch was brought forward to April this year. New Zealand's nationwide lockdown delayed the technology from being tested, but that was able to start once the country moved to Alert Level 2.
"A single zone bus or train trip to or from the ferry terminal is now included for AT HOP card users," says Planning Committee Chair Chris Darby.
"For just the cost of a ferry, you'll be able to hop on the bus to the terminal, take the ferry into town, then bus or train to work, education or whatever in the city centre. Integrated ferry fares mean more affordable travel, more people on ferries, buses and trains, and fewer cars on the road."
With an AT HOP card, customers will pay for their journey just once instead of paying for each bus, train or ferry trip separately. Tag on and off each bus, train or ferry as usual, and AT HOP fares will be automatically calculated for the entire journey, removing the cost of connecting bus and train trips in the same zone as the ferry.
AT HOP monthly ferry pass customers can take advantage of the new integrated fares too.
"We're excited to get integrated ferry fares up and running for AT HOP users now after working closely with our operating partners," says Colin Homan, AT's Group Manager of Integrated Network Enablement.
"Integrating ferry fares not only means commuters can save money every day, but it also makes it easier and more accessible to connect with buses or trains on either side of a ferry trip."
Aucklanders will be able to take advantage of the new integrated fare system when travelling on Bayswater, Beach Haven, Birkenhead, Gulf Harbour, Half Moon Bay, Hobsonville Point, Pine Harbour, Stanley Bay, Northcote Point and West Harbour ferry services contracted by AT.
Customers travelling on Devonport and Waiheke Island ferry services will also benefit from these savings when using an AT HOP card for their journey.
For more information about integrated fares visit at.govt.nz/farezones