Current Bee Card holders and bus passengers are facing a rise in their bus fare across the Bay of Plenty but new concessions are available.

From today Saturday July 1, children under 18 will travel for free, under 25s and Community Service Card holders will get 50 per cent off their fares. For all others, public transport fares will return to full price.

Half price fares ended on Friday June 30.

All Bayhopper and Cityride services are returning to normal fare pricing from Saturday July 1.This includes Katikati route 85 Town Connector and Tertiary services 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105.

Bus passengers are encouraged to top up their Bee Card so they're not caught short.

New concessions available

You must have a registered Bee Card and remember to tag on and tag off the bus to access these concessions.

Youth (5-18 years)
If you are aged 5-18 years you will travel free on the bus from July 1. If you already have a registered Bee Card with your birth date listed, this discount will be applied automatically.

Youth plus (19-24 years)
If you are aged 19-24 years you will pay half price adult fare on the bus from July 1. If you already have a registered Bee Card with your birth date listed, this discount will be applied automatically.

Community Connect
If you have a current Community Services Card issued by Ministry of Social Development you will pay half price adult fare on the bus from July 1.

You will need to apply for this discount and provide your MSD client number and date of birth. If you already receive discounted travel, especially SuperGold, Accessibility and Tertiary concession holders, please check which concession is best for you. Only one concession per card is possible.

Things to remember when you travel:

• Tag on and tag off the bus with your registered Bee Card
• Ensure you have your correct date of birth on your Bee Card
• Have a positive balance on your Bee Card (enough for a full adult fare)

Top up your Bee Card
Concessions available and how to apply
Check out your local bus fares