Cheeky campaign to lure motorists out of cars

By STUART DYE

Auckland's public transport chiefs are launching a cheeky advertising campaign to shame motorists out of their cars and on to buses.

Ads will appear on buses, with catchphrases such as: "Instead of reading this you could be reading the paper" and "Do you have your own lane. Don't think so. Catch a bus."

Catherine Harland, chairwoman of the Auckland Regional Council's passenger transport committee, said the idea behind the ads was to tell motorists that commuting could be more fun by bus.

In a parallel campaign, ads on buses taking western routes will thank Waitakere passengers for using the service and helping to reduce congestion. The Waytogo! campaign will feature slogans such as "Congratulations, you're in a stress-free zone. For examples of stress, look at motorists below".

"We recognise that for some people leaving the car at home is not an option," Ms Harland said. "But with over 100 return bus trips on designated bus lanes from New Lynn to the city everyday, in many cases taking the bus is a wise choice from a cost and convenience perspective."



The ads are part of a six-month transport campaign, which includes school travel plans, destination marketing, and personalised travel information for West Aucklanders.