Happy days for Hamilton's bus users

It’s official, not only is Hamilton city one of the fastest growing passenger transport networks in New Zealand, it is also one of the happiest. According to the latest annual bus user satisfaction survey, a 99 per cent satisfaction rate represents a steady increase over the past four years from 96 per cent in 2007.

“To achieve a rating of 99 per cent means our customers are some of the most satisfied in New Zealand,” said Environment Waikato’s land transport operations manager Bevan Dale

Environment Waikato undertakes a yearly survey of bus users on all services in Hamilton city, including the Huntly, Morrinsville, Te Awamutu and Raglan services operating in the city boundary. During September, council staff surveyed 1000 passengers across all services and times. The survey collects information about the types of passengers, their attitudes toward and perception of the bus service provided, and identifies any areas for improvement.

Key results reported 20 per cent of those surveyed are full time workers, an increase of six per cent on the previous year as more people take the bus to work. The number of bus passengers under the age of 24 also increased by six per cent to 56 per cent in 2010.

On the back of last year’s 98 per cent satisfaction rate, Mr Dale said it is great to see the effort to provide a safe, easy and desirable passenger transport service reflected in an even more improved 2010 satisfaction results.

Acknowledging the shared vision for a customer driven public transport service, he applauded the contribution of the council’s main bus providers with initiatives such as active customer service programmes and NZQA transport certification for drivers.

Environment Waikato is committed to improving passenger transport services in the Waikato. For more information or to provide feedback call 0800 800 401 or visit www.busit.co.nz.