The Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management published an assessment of Rarotonga’s free bus service, reporting that journeys increased by more than 70% after free travel began for eligible residents and students in April 2026, compared with the corresponding period in 2025. The assessment presents the existing scheme as a way to reduce dependence on imported fuel and ease pressure on roads. Active bus cards increased by around two-thirds, indicating that the growth included new riders rather than only more frequent journeys by existing passengers. Vehicle numbers and fuel consumption by cars have each grown by more than half since 2014, despite no population growth. Rarotonga’s diesel price has risen by 49% since disruption to a major oil shipping route in the Middle East in April 2026. Rising vehicle numbers also increase congestion and infrastructure costs on an island dependent on one main coastal road, with little room to widen it or add routes. The ministry estimates annual fuel savings of about 12,600 liters if half the additional bus journeys since April replace car trips. For an individual commuter traveling about 8 kilometers each way every weekday, switching from a car to the bus could save approximately 312 liters of fuel annually.
Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management reports bus journeys up more than 70% following introduction of free travel
The Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management reviewed Rarotonga’s free bus scheme, reporting journey growth of more than 70% against the corresponding period in 2025 after free travel began for eligible residents and students in April 2026. The assessment links increased bus use to lower fuel import needs and pressure on roads as car ownership rises. Estimated annual fuel savings reach about 12,600 liters if half the additional bus journeys replace car trips.