"In the beginning we transported older and disabled people predominantly, but during the initial operation of the shuttle we experienced demand outside our original criteria.
"The demand was from younger people with medical problems, people requiring transportation to Auckland and people requiring transportation within the Kaitaia area to specialist/treatment appointments and rest home visits, and so further funding was secured to expand the shuttle service to include these categories."
The services had operated successfully for eight years, providing a valuable service to the Far North community.
Ten dedicated drivers had given their time voluntarily, while the service was organised and co-ordinated by Home Support North Charitable Trust staff at the Kaitaia office.
A total of 3984 passengers had been driven 777,605 kilometres over the last eight years.
This year's funding applications had been unsuccessful, however, and that, combined with the additional workload for and pressure on the Kaitaia office staff, had led to the "difficult" decision to discontinue the service.
"The service has always been supported from our core business, which is home support, and the constraints that we face on funding mean that it is no longer an option," Ms McLiver added.
The trust was grateful to all those who had donated to the service, and especially to the drivers.
"And a heartfelt apology to the thousands of passengers who have used this service in the past to meet their health needs," she said.
"It is sincerely hoped that a permanent and sustainable solution can be found to enable the Kaitaia community to access the healthcare that they require and deserve."
