Navigating Taranaki by bus just got a whole lot easier thanks to a smart new app called Transit.
A real-time tracking app is now available for Taranaki bus services - in what’s being called a game-changer for public transport in the region.
Taranaki Regional Council has announced Transit as the official public transport app for Taranaki bus services and is encouraging users to download the free app.
Upon launching the app, Taranaki bus riders see nearby bus options and departure times in big text and bright colours. Users can easily navigate all bus services in the region, aided by accurate real-time bus ETAs, trip planning, step-by-step navigation, and crowdsourced real-time information with Transit’s GO feature.
Taranaki Regional Council Transport Engagement Manager Sarah Hiestand says the launch of a real-time app is a huge milestone for bus services in Taranaki.
“The app makes bus travel easier, more convenient and more reliable – it really is a game-changer.
“It takes the pressure off people to scroll through timetables and plan out routes themselves. Real-time tracking allows passengers to see how far away their bus is and ensures commuters are on the right bus, and get to the right stop at the right time. The app also provides data for the Council to improve our bus routes and timetables via GPS.
“We have been working hard to increase public transport usage in Taranaki and we believe this app is a significant step in the right direction.
“We’re really excited at the progress being made in this area and will be undertaking a full review of all Taranaki bus services and timetables. Over the coming months we will be sharing more details and providing the opportunity for public feedback.”
Council Chairperson Charlotte Littlewood says the Council is committed to delivering the best possible public transport services for Taranaki.
“The introduction of a real-time app is fantastic news that will be welcomed by users of our bus services.
“It is also a great opportunity for those who have not used public transport in Taranaki yet, to download the app, leave the car at home and give buses a go.”
The Council’s partnership with Transit offers a comprehensive, easy-to-use and widely-adopted app for riders. Under this agreement, the Council will also receive anonymised usage data and customisations to better serve the Taranaki region, such as the ability to send important update notifications directly to bus riders via the Transit app.
The Council joins several other public transit agencies across New Zealand that have partnered with the app, including Auckland Transport, Bus Travel NZ, Canterbury Regional Council, Otago Regional Council, Waikato Regional Council, Nelson City Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council.
“Partnering with a single app that prioritises transit makes it clear to riders where they can go for information,” says David Block-Schachter, Chief Business Officer of Transit. “We’re excited to work with Taranaki Regional Council and to see more people using Transit as part of their daily routine.”
Transit is available to download for iPhone and Android at www.transitapp.com(external link), on the App Store or Google Play.
Real-time bus tracking can also be done via the Council’s website.