You May Soon Be Allowed to Take Your Pet on Auckland Public Transport

Earlier in the year, Greater Wellington Regional Council announced it will allow domestic pets on buses and trains in a bid to 'normalise' the use of public transport. From the middle of July Wellingtonians will be welcome to bring cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits and even baby goats onto train, bus and ferry services for free during off-peak hours.

Under current Auckland Transport regulations, only dogs and small animals in cages are allowed on ferry services. The city's buses and trains are off limits. Following a proposal by Albert-Eden-Roskill Ward Councillor Cathy Casey to the council planning committee at the start of the month, Auckland pet lovers may soon be able to make the commute with their furry friends.

The committee voted unanimously in support of the decision. After consultation with the public, Auckland Transport will be making a final decision about whether pets will be allowed on buses and trains later in 2018.

The rules will likely follow similar conditions set down by Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Pets must be contained in a suitable carrier which must be stored securely in luggage spaces or on the passengers lap; travellers with pets will be responsible for the animal's safety as well as the safety of other passengers; pets must be kept under control at all times; passengers with pets may be refused entry or asked to leave if the service is crowded or the animal is likely to carry a safety risk, or nuisance in the eyes of the service provider.

Source: Stuff.