Proposed lower interim Dunedin bus fares were welcome, but submitters have objected to vulnerable groups facing higher charges for single-zone travel. Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins yesterday supported the Otago Regional Council’s temporary flat fare aims but warned of "perverse outcomes" in which vulnerable people were disadvantaged. Mr Hawkins has identified such people as children, students and GoCard Extra holders travelling within one zone. The hearing panel, comprising chairwoman Kate Wilson and commissioner Brian Baxter, will report its recommendations to a regional council meeting on August 12. The Bus Users Support Group Otepoti-Dunedin said the proposed 30% rise for children was "an unprecedented price gouge", and the Otago University Students’ Association said students should travel on the child fare.

Source: Otago Daily Times July 28, 2020 15:11 UTC