New services help fill Metro gap in east ChCh - Avonside, Dallington, Avondale, Aranui - media statement

New Metro Link services begin Monday, December 12 in Christchurch’s eastern suburbs. Road and bridge damage has severely restricted full-sized bus access to these areas since February 22.

The 511 Avonside and Dallington Link and the 512 Avondale and Aranui Link will provide four services a day each, Monday to Saturday, linking the Palms and Eastgate shopping centres and places in-between.

The aim of the 10-seater service, to be operated by Leopard Coachlines, is to provide access to shopping and community facilities for residents, mostly outside the peak commuting periods. The vehicle has been purchased specially to take road conditions and bridge weight limits into account and minimise vibrations to residents living along the routes.

“We are extremely pleased to be able to offer people living in the eastern suburbs a public transport option in time for Christmas,” said Environment Canterbury Commissioner Rex Williams. “We know that more flexible and compact buses may be required as the Christchurch rebuild takes shape and this service will provide a valuable pilot in that regard. Although four services per day is low frequency, we hope it will fill part of the gap in services for residents and we will be closely monitoring demand.”

Both Link services will be subject to regular detours as road and bridge repair work continues. Drivers will endeavour to stay as close as possible to the intended route and Metroinfo will have all details available as changes occur. To begin with, there will be detours off part of the normal routes in Dallington, Avondale and Aranui because of road closures in these areas.

Normal fares apply and SuperGold Card holders are welcome. Due to its compact size, wheelchair users cannot be accommodated.

For timetables please visit www.metroinfo.co.nz or call metroinfo 366 88 55 Monday to Saturday 7am – 9pm and Sunday 9am – 7pm or use facebook metroinfo.