Greater Christchurch bus fares to rise

Bus fares in Greater Christchurch are to rise on 30 September, reflecting the increasing cost of fuel, inflation and costs from the earthquake recovery.

Environment Canterbury Passenger Services Manager David Stenhouse says “We have not increased fares since August 2010 because we recognised the hardships faced by Metro customers in the post-earthquake environment.

“However because of the rising costs of fuel and road user charges, and the financial impact of road works across Greater Christchurch, the council can no longer hold off making the increase.’’

The Government, through New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), has set a policy that by 2017, 50% of bus service costs have to be to be recovered from fares.

“In the 2012/13 year, the fares recovered were just 37% of overall costs, so we have a way to go to reaching this target,’’ says Mr Stenhouse.

Patronage across Greater Christchurch is increasing with latest data showing a 14% increase from July 2012 to July 2013. The changes made to services in December 2012 have also resulted in greater efficiency in the north and south of the city.

“These two factors coupled with the fare increase will mean that we are well placed to meet the NZTA target.’’

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