Disabled experience bus buzz

Helping disabled people understand how easy it is to use Hamilton buses was the aim of an information day held in the central city yesterday by CCS Disability Action and Environment Waikato, with help from Hamilton City Council.

About 25 disabled people in wheelchairs attended the event in Caro St which involved an Orbiter bus from Pavlovich Coachlines and one of the latest Go Bus urban buses.

“Those attending ranged from the very elderly to school age students, “said EW’s land transport operations manager Bevan Dale.

“They were all able to get on and off the buses using the facilities for the disabled, and with the assistance of drivers and caregivers.

“They also got tips on how to ride on buses comfortably and safely – like always ensuring your wheelchair’s handbrake is on.”

Information was also available on BusIt stored value cards, how to read timetables and which bus services in the wider region – such as Raglan, Huntly and Paeroa services – were wheelchair-friendly.

“Environment Waikato and its bus contractors are committed to helping disabled people be more mobile in Hamilton,” said Mr Dale.

“Yesterday’s event showed clearly how user-friendly our buses can be for those in wheelchairs.”