A new bus service to strengthen transport links around the Taranaki coast is being trialled with the launch of an Ōpunake to New Plymouth (SH45) Southlink Coastal route.
Starting early November, the route will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with two return trips a day and replaces a previous service which only operated on a Friday.
The boost in coastal bus links by Taranaki Regional Council follows feedback from the community earlier in the year on public transport and comes as the Council seeks views on a Better Travel Choices for Taranaki strategy including improvements to the bus network.
Council Transport and Engagement Manager Cheryl Gazley says that the feedback from a community conversation in March was vital and is already paying dividends with proposals for improvements and bus service trials.
“We had an absolutely fantastic response to our community conversation earlier in the year when we asked what public transport improvements people wanted to see. We’ve listened to that and we’re delighted to launch a trial of this new service which connects our wonderful coastal communities along State Highway 45.
“We aren’t able to do everything for everyone all at once so we’re prioritising what can be changed to improve bus services for our community. I’d urge people to take part in the current community conversation as your views will be key to how we plan services that the people of Taranaki want.”
Bus frequency, new bus routes including a link from New Plymouth to the airport, weekend bus services and transport hubs are just a few of the initiatives discussed in the Council’s draft Better Travel Choices for Taranaki strategy.
Ms Gazley says the proposals in the strategy are aimed at refreshing the bus network across Taranaki.
“We need to make sure we’re on the right track, so it’s crucial that current and potential bus users take a look at the proposals and provide their feedback.”
Feedback is currently being sought on:
- Proposed bus routes
- Proposed bus timetable changes
- Weekend and public holiday services
- Airport bus
- Express services
- Community (on-demand) transport
The trial Southlink Coastal bus service will stop at Rāhotu, Pungarehu, Ōkato and Oākura. A full timetable will be available mid-October on the Council website. For more information and to provide feedback, visit trc.govt.nz/transport.(external link) The feedback period closes on 29 October.
At the same time, the New Plymouth District Council, Stratford District Council and South Taranaki District Council are asking for feedback on their speed management plans. More information can be found at trc.govt.nz/transport.(external link)