Region offers week of free buses as part of major network shake-up

Hawke’s Bay residents will be able to ride buses for free for a week starting January 25 as the region rolls out a revamped public transport network, including new links to the airport and hospital.

New Hawke’s Bay Bus Network Launches with Free Rides

The new network, spanning Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North, represents the most significant public transport changes in the region in almost two decades. For the first time, public transport links will be available to Hawke’s Bay Airport and the Regional Sports Park, with improved connections to Hawke’s Bay Hospital and EIT.

The rollout follows the end of the council’s MyWay trial on January 23, which operated at a cost 159% higher than the previous bus routes. The trial launched in Hastings in 2022 with three vans replacing three existing bus routes.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Transport Committee Chair Neil Kirton encouraged residents to take advantage of the free travel period. “We want everyone to see how much easier life can be with a more direct, better-connected service, which is why we’re making it completely free to ride for the first seven days,” Kirton said.

Regional council transport manager Russell Turnbull said passengers will notice immediate improvements. “We’ve moved away from complex loops to easier-to-understand, more direct routes, supported by nearly 100 additional bus stops,” Turnbull said. “By making routes bi-directional, we are doubling the convenience for our passengers and drastically reducing wait times. This expansion means that reliable bus services are now within a short 400-metre walk of almost 100,000 residents across the region.”

Bus Stop Installations Face Resident Concerns

Hastings District Council recently informed 588 residents about the installation of 180 new bus stops in the city. Some residents have expressed concerns about the necessity of additional stops.

Flaxmere resident Blair Kyle received a notice on November 17 stating a bus stop was planned for installation outside his property, despite existing stops nearby. “It’s bizarre and unnecessary,” Kyle said.

At a meeting on December 11, Hastings District Council approved the installation of bus stops where no objections were received and committed to continued consultation with residents and businesses where objections remain. While Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is responsible for public transport, Hastings District Council is responsible for installing bus stop signage and pavement markings.