Bee Card
What is a Bee Card?
Bee Card is the prepay travel smartcard that has been introduced to nine regions in New Zealand. The Bee Card can be used for local public transport in Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, Manawatu-Whanganui, Nelson, Otago and Invercargill.
The Bee card went live on 20 July 2020 in Eastern Bay (including Kawerau, Ōpōtiki, and Whakatāne) Rotorua, Ōmokoroa and Katikati and 27 July 2020 in Tauranga.
Where can I get a Bee Card from?
The easiest way to get your new Bee Card is to order online at beecard.co.nz and have it posted to you (could take up to 10 working days).
Alternatively, pick up your Bee Card from a bus driver and register the card online at Beecard.co.nz, or pick up from a Bay of Plenty Regional Council office at:
- 5 Quay Street Whakatāne
- Corner Fenton & Pukaki Streets Rotorua
- Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street Tauranga
From 1 November 2020, all new and replacement Bee cards will incur a $5 cost
What are the benefits of the Bee Card to the passenger?
It’s faster. Passengers don’t have to wait in line to pay the bus driver. For concession holders’ e.g. SuperGold card holders and school children, they won’t have to show their ID when tagging on.
Why is the system changing?
The previous system was old and the tag on/off data will provide BOPRC with better information on where people are travelling to and from to assist with network planning and improvements.
How much does a Bee Card Cost?
The physical yellow Bee card costs $5 when you order it online or pick it up in person. A minimum top-up of $5 dollars also applies - with the exception of SuperGold holders.
