Funding just the ticket

The Auckland region’s integrated ticketing and fares system for train, bus and ferry users has come closer to reality.

New Zealand Transport Agency has approved the funding needed to move the project forward.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority chairman Rabin Rabindran says it’s delighted with the news.

The authority is responsible for the integrated planning, funding and implementation of transport throughout the Auckland region, with the exception of state highways.

"This is a critical and long-awaited next step for Auckland’s public transport system – doing away with a
multiplicity of ticket options and opening the door to greater ease of use for our customers with a single ticket.

"An integrated ticket is a pivotal investment in the future development of Auckland as a city which ultimately wants to stand on the international stage as having world-class levels of transport in all respects."

Mr Rabindran says the authority can now move to finalise contract negotiations with a consortium made up of French electronics company Thales, in partnership with the Bank of New Zealand and Transfield services.

"The next step in the process is to negotiate the terms of the contract with its preferred tenderer," he says.

"Once the contract is signed and commercial negotiations finalised, we will be able to provide more details.

"We expect this to be in the coming month."

Mr Rabindran says the authority will also be helping the agency develop a national integrated ticketing system to benefit public transport users throughout New Zealand.

- © Fairfax NZ News