Huge Increase in Bus Use

The number of Napier and Hastings people using public transport is on the increase, with use up 60% on last year.

Quarterly figures show that during March, April and May of 2008, passenger numbers totalled 67,920. Over the same period this year, passenger trips reached 110,378, an increase of 42,458.

“I am absolutely delighted to see a 60% increase in the use of the public bus network,” said Cr Alan Dick, Chair of Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and the Regional Transport Committee.

“A lot of work has gone into producing easy to read timetable booklets and installing new timetable information units at key bus stops. And, of course, another factor is the new fleet, featuring comfortable buses with super-low-floors for easy access, air-conditioning/heating and low emissions.”

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is working closely with Go Bus to identify ways in which services can be improved even more to meet local needs.

“One area we still need to improve is clearer identification of bus stops, especially in the Tamatea and Taradale areas, but with the help of Napier City Council traffic engineers, we are hoping to have all bus stops in the area marked in the very near future,” said Chairman Dick.

With more and more people looking not only to save money but to become more socially responsible, travelling by bus is a great option. The walk to and from the bus stop is also a perfect way to build some regular exercise into a working day.

For more information on bus routes and timetables go to www.hbrc.govt.nz and click on goBay, or phone Go Bus on 878 9250.