The implementation of cheap public transport for 5 to 24-year-olds in New Zealand has encountered difficulties due to the lack of an age verification
The implementation of cheap public transport for 5 to 24-year-olds in New Zealand has encountered difficulties due to the lack of an age verification system. While many regions have been able to offer half-price fares, some major councils, including Wellington and Auckland, are struggling to meet the deadline of July 1st for the new concessions. The Greater Wellington Regional Council stated that their ticketing system cannot accommodate the age verification process. Other regions have reported readiness for the implementation, but the complexity of changes needed behind the scenes has caused delays. The situation has drawn criticism from opposition parties, highlighting the lack of proper planning and calling for the extension of the existing half-price fares until the age-based scheme can be implemented. The government has emphasized that funding has been provided to councils for the changes, and they are working on rolling out the discounts as soon as possible.
