Kaua‘i Bus launches Open Payments with Masabi

Kauaʻi Bus and Masabi announce the launch of Open Payments.

Riders now have a contactless option to pay for trips by tapping a credit or debit card or mobile wallet such as Apple Pay or Google Pay on any Kauaʻi Bus.

This provides a simple, cash-free way to ride with the added benefit of automatic daily and monthly fare capping.

“This latest launch makes riding The Kauaʻi Bus easier than ever, whether you are a local commuter or a visitor exploring the island,” said Mayor Derek Kawakami in the county’s announcement of the new payment option. “With Open Payments, you can simply tap your card or phone and ride with no need for cash, passes or concern about overpaying. It is a modern, convenient, and fair system designed for everyone.”

This launch follows the successful introduction of mobile ticketing in January and account-based ticketing with the Holomua smartcard in May.

These improvements, together, make Kauaʻi Bus a leading example of how agencies can modernize fare collection using a phased approach. With Open Payments, riders can now choose to pay via the mobile app, smartcard or contactless bank card while always receiving the best possible fare.

Open Payments also makes public transit easier for Kauaʻi’s many visitors. Tourists can simply tap a card or phone to ride.

The system reduces reliance on cash, speeds up boarding and lowers operational costs for regular riders, helping Kauaʻi Bus provide more efficient and reliable service.

Account Linking was also introduced with the lauch, allowing riders to connect their payment card to a single transit account.

This feature enables reduced fares to be applied directly to the payment card and gives riders access to trip history and other account-based benefits.

Fare capping ensures riders always pay the lowest fare.

Prices are set at:

• Mainline single ride: Adult $2/Reduced fare $1.
• Shuttle ride: $0.50/Reduced fare $0.25.
• Day pass: Adult $5/Reduced fare $2.50.
• Monthly pass: Adult $50/Reduced fare $25.

“Kauaʻi Bus has shown the benefits of a phased approach to fare modernization, moving from mobile ticketing to [account-based ticketing] and now to Open Payments in less than a year,” said Masabi Chief Executive Officer Brian Zanghi in the county’s announcement. “This rollout is about more than technology. It is about making public transit more accessible, efficient and rider-friendly for residents and visitors alike.”

The new system is powered by Masabi’s Justride platform, an open, modular and continually evolving fare payment system used by transit agencies and operators worldwide.

Riders can continue to manage their accounts, load funds and pick up smartcards at the Kauaʻi Bus office or simply tap their card or mobile wallet to ride.