Small pets have been cleared to travel on public transport in Greater Christchurch from 1 December, with new rules coming into force across Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn.

Pets will be permitted on buses and ferries during off peak hours, provided they are in an approved carrier or, in the case of small dogs, on a leash with a muzzle. Other conditions also apply.

Canterbury Regional Council Public Transport Core Service Lead Cr Joe Davies said the change was an important step for the region.

“We’re proud to now be able to offer this for those who need to travel with their pets on our Metro services in Greater Christchurch,” Cr Davies said.

“It will help to serve people in the community, allowing for greater accessibility.

“The community has been on the journey with us to help make this happen, and we’re grateful for everyone’s feedback that helped us to set clear guidelines, to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable with the pets that start using our buses.”

Public transport general manager Stewart Gibbon said drivers were being supported through the transition.

“Our drivers do an incredible job of keeping our services running, and we ask customers to be respectful to our drivers as they navigate this change,” he said.

Key rules include:

• Pets must fit comfortably in a carrier no larger than 58.4cm long, 38.7cm wide and 33cm high

• Off peak hours are weekdays between 9.00am and 3.00pm, after 6.30pm, and all day on weekends and public holidays

• Small dogs must be leashed and wearing a cage muzzle when not in a carrier

• Pets must stay off seats and be carried on the customer’s lap

• One carrier or dog per customer aged 16 or older

• Dogs on the Diamond Harbour ferry must remain at the rear outdoor area

• Customers are responsible for cleaning up any mess

• Pets are not allowed on school buses or on the upper deck of double decker buses

• Drivers may decline boarding if a service is too full or if a pet poses a risk or nuisance

Pets are allowed inside the bus interchange only while transferring between Metro services. At the Riccarton Road Metro lounges, pets must remain in the outdoor area.