A growing Auckland requires more freedom for residents, businesses and visitors to be able to move around our city.
“Change and improvement are key themes on the bus network,” says Brendon Main, Auckland Transport Metro’s Bus Services Manager. “Over the past two years, on-time performance has improved to 94 per cent, customer trips have risen by 14 per cent and complaints have fallen by 50 per cent.”
The bus fleet is designed to be modern, comfortable and environmentally friendly. About a third of buses are under five years old – that compares with the average car at over 13.
Doubling up
Double-decker buses will also be rolling out on major bus routes over the next few months starting with Botany. Customers have loved using the new buses already in service on the Northern Express.
“The introduction of double-decker buses is one of the signs of the phenomenal growth in public transport patronage in Auckland requiring innovative solutions to cope with demand,” says Mayor Len Brown.
Changes to the bus network
November 2015 saw the start of an unprecedented period of change to Auckland’s bus network. The New Network was launched on the Hibiscus Coast, and Downtown destinations for Western and North Shore services were altered to allow for early works for the City Rail Link.
Further changes will happen as the City Rail Link construction gains momentum and as other projects, such as the International Convention Centre, start to be built.
It’s not just the CBD that’s changing. Major interchanges at Ōtāhuhu and Manukau are being built; others are planned for delivery in conjunction with the New Network.
HOP on board
Buses are a major part of an important interconnected network with trains and ferries. The introduction of HOP as a single card that can be used on all modes is part of that connectivity. Simplified fares will take this to the next level of ease of use for customers.
