Ferry fares rolled into AT Hop

Ferry passengers in Auckland could find their daily commute costs them less.

Ferry fares yesterday became part of Auckland Transport’s integrated fare system.

That means commuters can transfer between buses, trains and ferries and pay just once for their entire trip.

People will still need to tag on and off each bus, train or ferry as usual with their AT Hop card, but the fare for the whole trip will be automatically calculated.

Mayor Phil Goff said it was now simpler and cheaper to use public transport.

“Encouraging more people to use public transport will help lower carbon emissions and mean that those who do drive experience reduced traffic congestion,” he said.

“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 was brought forward to April this year.

The lockdown delayed the technology from being tested. That was able to start once the country moved to alert level 2.

Planning committee chair Chris Darby said a single zone bus or train trip to or from the ferry terminal was now included for AT Hop card users.

“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,” he said.

Aucklanders can take advantage of the new 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.

Devonport and Waiheke Island ferry customers will also save when using an AT Hop card for their journey.