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Pawsitive news – Large dogs now welcome on Auckland’s buses Pawsitive news – Large dogs now welcome on Auckland’s buses

Date: 19 May 2023

From 21 May, Auckland’s buses will welcome large dogs with leads and approved muzzles on board.

This follows the (p)awesome success of the first Pets on Buses trial – smaller pets in carriers. Small domestic pets in approved carriers are now allowed on Auckland Transport (AT) buses permanently.

Larger dogs that do not fit in approved carriers can start travelling on Auckland buses from 21 May. Initially, this will be for an eight week trial. AT will consider making the change permanent if the trial is successful.

Councillor Josephine Bartley is excited that Auckland is becoming a more pet friendly city,

“Changes like this make catching public transport an option for more people.

"I’d like to acknowledge the hard work of Dr Cathy Casey for pushing for changes like this over her many years as a Councillor.

“I’m definitely looking forward to taking my dog Milo on the bus soon!” says Councillor Bartley.

AT’s Improvement Delivery Lead, Luke Clarke, says the enthusiastic response to pets on buses shows that Aucklanders want more options when travelling.

“This trial reflects our commitment to make public transport easier and more accessible for all Aucklanders.

“We’re excited to see larger four-legged passengers joining their owners on our buses,” says Mr Clarke.

Currently large dogs are allowed on Auckland trains and ferries with an approved muzzle and lead. Small domestic pets are permitted on trains, buses and ferries when enclosed in an approved carrier.

Video of pets on buses here: https://youtube.com/shorts/0K3-yGriDbo

Terms and Conditions:

  • Larger dogs that do not fit in approved carriers must have a lead and approved muzzle to travel (for the duration of the trial).
  • The larger dogs on buses trial will run from 21/05/2023 to 16/07/2023.
  • Small domestic pets in approved carriers are permanently welcome on AT bus services subject to other T&Cs.
  • You can travel with your pet on weekdays between the hours of 9:00am and 3:00pm, after 6:30pm, and all-day on weekends and public holidays.
  • You are responsible for your pet’s mess.
  • Your pet gets free travel on all buses.
  • You may be unable to board the bus with your pet if the bus is too crowded.
  • You may be asked to leave the bus if your pet poses a risk to other customers. If this happens, you won’t be entitled to a refund.
  • Pets are not permitted on the upper deck of buses.
  • Pets are not permitted to sit on bus seats.
  • Pets are not permitted on school buses.
  • Children younger than 16 years old cannot travel with pets unless they are with an adult.
  • You may be asked to move if an assistance dog boards to avoid it being distracted by other pets.