New fares for Baybus OnDemand

From Monday 28 April, fares for Baybus OnDemand will be changing.

Baybus OnDemand is a flexible shared ride service that has been trialled in Tauranga South since March 2024. It has been a popular choice, with more than 33,600 trips taken so far. Because it costs more to run than a regular bus route, we are adjusting fares to help test what might work as we plan for the future.

What’s changing?

From 28 April:

• The standard fare will increase from $3.40 to $5.00 per trip
• The Bee Card fare will increase from $2.72 to $4.00 per trip
• Free transfers between Baybus OnDemand and the main Baybus network will no longer apply. You’ll pay a separate fare for each trip
• Free peak-time travel for children and young people aged 5 to 18 with a Bee Card will no longer apply on Baybus OnDemand

Youth travel is changing

If you’re aged 5 to 18 and use Baybus OnDemand, free peak-time travel will no longer apply.

• $2.50 standard fare
• $2.00 with a Bee Card

If you usually travel free before and after school, this will still be available on the fixed-route Baybus network. You can continue to travel free during term time before 9am and between 2.30pm and 6pm on weekdays - just not on Baybus OnDemand.

Other concessions remain available

Concessions are still available for eligible customers, including:

• Accessible Transport customers
• Community Services Card holders
• SuperGold Card holders

While concession types remain in place, some concession fares are changing from 28 April.
Concession fares are applied through a registered Bee Card.

Check out how the new fares are applied.

What you need to do

• Top up your Bee Card before you travel. Baybus OnDemand is a cash-free service
• Plan for a separate fare if you’re transferring between Baybus OnDemand and other Baybus services

• Make sure your Bee Card is registered if you’re eligible for a youth or concession fare.

What’s staying the same

You can still book the same way, travel in the same areas and use the service daily between 6am and 7pm.

• Book using the Baybus OnDemand app, by calling 0800 4 BAYBUS or through a Book on Behalf agent
• Travel anywhere within the Tauranga South service zone
• Enjoy the same flexible, convenient experience you’re used to

If you have any questions, call 0800 4 BAYBUS (0800 4 229 287). We're here to help.