Pensioner discounts will stay

Marlborough Grey Power president Jean Wilson is pleased threats to the elderly's SuperGold discount card have been quelled just as quickly as they were raised.

On Friday, it was announced the Government was looking at cutting back on free off-peak travel for the elderly as the cost of the SuperGold scheme mounts.

More than 500,000 New Zealanders aged over 65 hold the cards, which entitle them to a range of discounts on goods and services, as well as free off-peak travel on urban bus and rail services and some ferry services.

Transport Minister Steven Joyce said the travel subsidy under the SuperGold card was likely to exceed its $18 million-a-year budget, with the Wairarapa to Wellington train service and the Waiheke Island ferry singled out as services used frequently by SuperGold card holders.

His announcement brought protests from the elderly and opposition parties.

A day later, Mr Joyce backed off any changes.

Mrs Wilson said she was "thrilled for everybody" at the news the card would remain as is.

She said while SuperGold cardholders in Marlborough did not receive as many public-transport benefits as those in bigger centres, cardholders regularly took advantage of the free Mitre 10 Mega Blenheim bus, saving at least $2 every time they travelled on it.

Mrs Wilson said she was "disappointed" at earlier calls to scrap the SuperGold card or reduce its discounts.

"[The SuperGold card] is one of the few privileges that the older people have.

"A lot of people use that card service every day. It's not just for people going to Waiheke Island."

SUPER DISCOUNTS

Some of the discounts offered in Marlborough for SuperGold cardholders: $100 off cruise holidays with Air New Zealand Holiday store. Unlimited transactions at selected banks. 20 per cent off full diagnostic hearing tests, plus a two-month free trial on hearing aids at Bay Audiology. 15 per cent off at Blenheim Physiotherapy. Free furniture moving and disposal of existing flooring at Carpet Court. 10 per cent off at Marlborough UFS Dispensary.

- with Fairfax reporters

- The Marlborough Express