Hawaii’s Kauaʻi Bus Launches Account-Based Ticketing and Smartcards Powered by Masabi
New “Tap and Ride with Holomua” system brings convenience, flexibility, and fare capping to riders across the island
Līhu‘e, HI & New York, NY – May 13, 2025 – The Kauaʻi Bus has today announced the addition of Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) powered by Masabi’s Open Platform, Justride, on both the Kauaʻi Bus mobile app and new Holomua smartcard. Coming just four months after the launch of mobile ticketing, this next phase allows riders to simply tap and ride, enjoying greater ease, flexibility, and savings every time they board.
Kauaʻi Bus riders can also now use their app or Holomua smartcard without needing to pre-purchase a ticket or select a fare, safe in the knowledge that they will be charged the best possible price for their journey. The move is part of Kauaʻi’s phased approach to building a fully modernized fare payment system that meets the needs of both residents and visitors while preparing the network for future enhancements such as Open Payments.
With the new ABT system, riders can manage a transit account through the Kauaʻi Bus app or online portal, loading funds and tapping their phone or smartcard to ride. Instead of selecting a fare upfront, the system automatically deducts the appropriate fare and tracks usage—ensuring riders always pay the best price thanks to fare capping:
· Mainline Single Ride: Adult $2.00 / Reduced Fare $1.00
· Day Pass: Adult $5.00 / Reduced Fare $2.50
· Monthly Pass Cap: Adult $50.00 / Reduced Fare $25.00
“This launch marks a significant step forward in our ongoing mission to make public transit on Kauaʻi as easy, accessible, and modern as possible,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “With the Holomua smartcard and the mobile app, riders have options that means they can leave cash behind and tap their way across the island, with the peace of mind that they’ll always pay the best possible price.”
The new ABT system reduces the need to carry cash or pre-plan fares, making it easier for locals and tourists alike to hop on a bus and explore the island. Riders who prefer to use cash can conveniently load funds onto their account at select retail locations or at the Kauaʻi Bus office. The Holomua smartcard is especially convenient for riders who may not use smartphones but still want the benefits of digital fares.
“We’re delighted to deepen our partnership with The Kauaʻi Bus supporting the roll out Account-Based Ticketing and bringing smarter, more efficient payment options to riders,” said Brian Zanghi, CEO of Masabi. “Kauaʻi’s approach, starting with mobile ticketing and expanding to ABT, is a powerful example of how transit systems can evolve and transform fare collection in phases to deliver meaningful improvements for their communities.”
Riders can download the Kauaʻi Bus app or pick up a Holomua card to start tapping and riding today. Open Payments, which will allow passengers to pay directly using their contactless bank cards or mobile wallets, is scheduled to go online later in 2025.
