No cash fares on buses from Monday, 23 March 2020.

Auckland Transport and its bus operators have moved to make public transport even safer as they manage the COVID-19 issue.

From next Monday, 23 March, cash fares will not be accepted on Auckland’s buses.

This will minimise the physical contact between customers, Auckland Transport staff and bus drivers.

Currently 93 per cent of bus passengers pay using AT HOP and on some routes HOP usage is around 98 per cent.

If a customer was planning to buy a paper ticket to travel they will instead be given a free AT HOP card for their journey. This service will be available at AT’s 13 customer service centres.

These AT HOP cards will be limited in quantity and for those who only carry cash. Customers are further encouraged to top-up their cards online using the AT website or AT Mobile app.

AT continues to follow the guidelines from the Ministry of Transport about using public transport in light of COVID-19.

The ministry says it is safe for people to continue to use buses, trains and ferries so long as they are feeling well. If you don’t feel well, stay home to help limit the spread of any virus.

This is supported by the Ministry of Health which has made it clear there is no link between using public transport and confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand.

The Ministry of Transport recommends people take extra measures to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Read about what extra measures you can do.

In addition, Auckland Transport has already been taking proactive steps to ensure we are ready for a possible escalation of COVID-19. Find out details of Auckland Transport's proactive steps.

Auckland Transport continues to work closely with and take advice from the government and the Ministry of Health regarding COVID-19 safety precautions.

Remember that the best place to find the latest information about the COVID-19 situation in New Zealand is on the Government’s special COVID-19 website.

For COVID-19 health advice and information, or if you think you may have COVID-19, Aucklanders can contact the Healthline team (for free) on 0800 358 5453.