People with mobility challenges, a disability, or have anxiety about using public buses are encouraged to come and try riding the bus on 'Have a Go' day in Rotorua and Whakatane on Friday.
The event will coincide with the International Day of People with Disability and is being organised by CCS Disability Action Bay of Plenty and Bay of Plenty Regional Council who manage the region's public bus service.
CCS Disability Action Bay of Plenty Access Coordinator Mandy Gudgeon said the day was designed to give people who had never ridden on the public buses the opportunity in a supportive atmosphere and to also help bus drivers understand their needs.
"There will be a bus parked at each location where people can come and try using the wheelchair ramp and kneeling functions of the vehicle as well as talk to drivers and staff in a no pressure/supportive environment.
"Our hope is that on this International Day of People with Disability that the wider community is aware of the transport needs of people with a disability, mobility issues and anxiety and that everyone can ride public buses with the right support," said Ms Gudgeon.