Queenstown poised for launch of new bus service

Queenstown's revitalised bus network swings into operation tomorrow (Wednesday 14 July) with the official launch of new services at the Queenstown kiosk at O'Connells, Camp Street, at 12.30pm.

Five new 23-seater buses will operate on the feeder services from Queenstown to outlying residential areas, including Arthurs Point, Kelvin Heights, and the Lake Hayes Estate.

The new package of services for the Wakatipu also includes increased frequency of services between Queenstown, Frankton, and the airport; and the introduction of the GoCard electronic ticketing and fare-saving system.

The council has contracted local bus operator Connectabus to provide the new services, which will complement their existing commercial services in the Wakatipu Basin.

Speakers at tomorrow's launch include Otago Regional Council (ORC) Chairman Stephen Cairns, Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Clive Geddes, and New Zealand Transport Agency regional director Bruce Richards.

Cr Cairns said the new initiatives were an excellent example of close co-operation between various agencies to provide an enhanced passenger transport service for Wakatipu residents.

Mr Geddes said the launch came at a time when there were projections of major growth in the Wakatipu's population.

The improved bus service was an important response to helping the district's long-term transport infrastructure planning and would play a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion in the greater Queenstown area.

It would also provide another cost-effective transport option for local residents, Mr Geddes said.

Mr Richards said NZTA was pleased to have been associated with the project, and commended ORC, QLDC, and Connectabus for their combined efforts to bring it to fruition.

At the same time as the launch of new services ORC is introducing the electronic ticketing system GoCard which has been popular with Dunedin bus users since 2007.

ORC Director of Corporate Services Wayne Scott said when using GoCard, passengers did not need to worry about carrying the right cash.

"They simply load up their card and put it on a reader in the bus which automatically deducts the correct fare," he said.

The GoCard offers a 10% discount on the cash fare. GoCards will be available on the buses and from QLDC and ORC offices from Wednesday 14 July.

ORC is offering an early bird special - people depositing $20 or more on a GoCard will not have to pay the usual one-off $5.00 issue fee. The early bird special will be available until 31 July.

Connectabus, as well providing the new services, has also increased the frequency of buses from Queenstown to Arrowtown and Queenstown Airport. The new timetable and fare information are on www.connectabus.com Timetables will be on bus stops from tomorrow, Wednesday 14 July.