The bus that criss-crosses Taranaki is now bigger, better and brighter.
A brand-new bus has entered service as the Hāwera-Stratford — New Plymouth Connector, making four return trips each weekday with extensions from and to Ōpunake on the first and final trips respectively.
As well as more seats — for 45 passengers, up from the current 41 — the new vehicle has more locker space for prams, pushchairs and even bikes, easier boarding, seats with extra leg room, air suspension at the rear for a smoother ride, electronic destination board and closed-circuit TV. And its exterior signwriting leaves no one in any doubt about the region it serves.
The Connector is operated by Pickering Motors Ltd under contract to the Taranaki Regional Council.
"We're delighted Pickerings have invested in a new vehicle for what has proved to be an important addition to the region's public transport network," says TRC transport services manager, Chris Clarke.