No cash on buses from mid-2024
Christchurch public transport users will not be able to use cash on city buses and ferries from mid next year.
The move has prompted concerns about the impact on those who prefer to use cash, especially the elderly and homeless. The proposal also defies a survey that found three-quarters of public transport users believe cash is important.
However, ECan staff say cash handling is consistently raised by drivers, operators and unions as an issue for driver safety and wellbeing, and that it makes sense to take advantage of the roll-out of a new nationwide public transport card to rid the system of cash. The National Ticketing Solution will be introduced in Canterbury in mid-2024.
What do you think of our city's buses and ferries going cashless? Read reporter Keiller MacDuff's full story here (subscription required) and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.2% Yes
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46.8% No
Out and about this week
Another productive week meeting some great people and keeping their gardens and lawns looking sharp. Scarifying, mowing, pruning, garden tidy ups. Get in touch if you need help.
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