Public buses (file image). Photo: Supplied/ Auckland Transport
Transport Minister Simeon Brown is celebrating what he says is a record investment in public transport.
The New Zealand Transport Agency confirmed an indicative funding increase of 41 percent for public transport services and operations over the next three years, compared to the previous three.
The previous allocation for the whole country was $1.38 billion.
That will jump to $1.95b once final allocations are confirmed in late August.
By region, Gisborne and Hawke's Bay are set to get the biggest boost with increases of 89 percent and 116 percent, respectively.
Transport Minister Simeon Brown. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
That is from $1.95m to $3.69m for Gisborne and $8m to $17.5m for Hawke's Bay.
"This government is committed to supporting public transport to provide more travel choices for New Zealanders," Brown said.
"This is a record investment in public transport services and operations to deliver reliable services to commuters across the country."
Brown also announced the roll-out of contactless debit and credit card payments for use on public transport, through the National Ticketing Solution.
This will also include digital payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay on phones and smart watches.
Brown said this will make public transport services more convenient, easier to use, and deliver a consistent experience.
"These methods are common elsewhere around the world, and it's time New Zealanders had access to the same standard of service."
The service will be rolled out over the next two years, starting in Auckland later this year, Christchurch in early 2025 and all other regions by the end of 2026.
Public transport users will still have the option of a pre-paid transit card.
Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere said the national ticketing system had been in the pipeline for some time so it made sense.
"What does not make sense is the government making it harder for people to access public transport by slashing free and half-price travel during a cost-of-living crisis."
