Bay of Plenty Regional Council has announced that it is seeking feedback from the public regarding the proposed changes to the Tauranga bus network. The council aims to use current public transport resources more efficiently and make bus travel easier to enhance journeys around the city and suburbs. The public consultation process will be open for submissions until April 28.
Oliver Haycock, the Regional Council Transport Planning Manager, said that an effective public transport system plays a significant role in the growth of Tauranga. He added that the proposed changes include adjusting bus routes and services to address known challenges faced by customers and to meet demand. Mr. Haycock also highlighted the new Route 1 service as an exciting element of the proposal, which will run the full length of Cameron Road before heading over the Harbour Bridge to Mount Maunganui.
The Tauranga bus network refresh began in November 2021, and this next stage focuses on improving routes in the west and south of Tauranga, including Matua, Ōtūmoetai, the CBD, Greerton, Pyes Pā, The Lakes/Tauriko, Ohauiti, and Welcome Bay. The council is inviting feedback on specific bus services to provide more convenient travel choices and encouraging people to share their thoughts online, in person, or by post.
While the Regional Council is not responsible for the placement or provision of bus stops and shelters, any comments related to infrastructure will be passed on to Tauranga City Council for consideration. After public consultation, the feedback will be analyzed and incorporated into the proposal, and the updated network design will be shared in June 2023. The council plans to begin planning for implementation after this.
For more information, a consultation booklet outlining the proposed changes is available on the council’s website. Submissions can be made online, in person, or by post. The council staff will also be available at busy bus stops to provide information to the public.
