Trusted school services.
SCHOOL TRANSPORT SERVICES
Consistent. Reliable. Safe.
School services are part of who we are. Decades of safely transporting Kiwi students have built strong systems, disciplined safety behaviours and a culture of manaakitanga.
Our commitment to student wellbeing makes us one of New Zealand’s largest and most trusted school transport providers.
- Direct school +MoE contracts
- Local authority services
- SESTA Transport
- School Charters
For parents and caregivers, detailed information on our school services is available on our dedicated Information for Caregivers page.
Proud school service history
Ritchies has held contracts with the Ministry of Education (MoE) continually since 1935. We operate hundreds of funded school services every day as well as providing private charter and local authority runs.
A loyal and dependable partner, with depots located from Kaitaia to Gore in the south.
DRIVING AHEAD
Working to improve the future
We are building our reputation and capability with significant investment in technology platforms, a well-maintained school fleet and continued development of our committed leaders and driving teams.
Comprehensive training
Safe drivers and fleet
Safe driving is a core competency. Our drivers complete our in-house training programme, led by NZTA-endorsed and MITO-accredited instructors, to ensure safety and professionalism.
Vetted and trained: All drivers are fully vetted, licensed and receive ongoing training in communication and de-escalation skills. Drug and alcohol testing is random or mandatory after any incidents.
Vehicle reliability: Fleet reliability is managed through rigorous preventative maintenance by qualified mechanics in our purpose-built workshops, keeping every vehicle ready for every journey.
Expertise and innovation
Pioneering solutions
We have a track record for fresh thinking and we’re always looking to build on this. Ritchies was the first in New Zealand to introduce specially designed school buses on modified truck chassis.
They’re fuel efficient and perfect for gravel and rural routes. They’ve allowed us to replace older buses, lowering emissions and improving comfort.
CARING FOR THOSE IN NEED
Our SESTA experience
Our teams are proud to help families with children who have safety or mobility needs with Specialised School Transport Assistance.
We deliver Ministry of Education (MoE) SESTA services in 11 regions, from Kaitaia to Gore. All our drivers receive specialised training and take pride in helping students make the most of their educational opportunities.
WHY PARTNER WITH RITCHIES
Safer journeys. Customer service. Competitive pricing.
Across the Ritchies group of companies our depots are well located to support school bus operations, and we employ local drivers, familiar with your community.
”‘We will always work closely with schools and the Ministry of Education to establish the best routes and pick-up points to ensure all students arrive at school, safe, on time and ready to learn.’
Amish VallabhDirector of Commercial
If changes to services are required then our deep knowledge of the network and large pool of drivers and fleet allow us to respond quickly and effectively to maintain service continuity.
Understanding your priorities
A safe and experienced person behind the wheel
All our drivers are vetted and undergo comprehensive, ongoing training and review providing confidence in their skill and professionalism.
A reliable, clean and comfortable bus
Our depot teams have a daily, meticulous focus on cleaning and vehicle checks, ensuring your tamariki a safe, fresh, and dependable ride every day.
Value for money that respects your budget
Our rates recognise the financial challenges. Our depot teams, managers and their whānau live in your community – we are locals and parents too.
What our customers say
“We are a local primary school and use Ritchies buses for all our school trips. Punctual, helpful with any different needs – we’ve found their service outstanding.”
‘I’m writing to express my appreciation of the good work you all do with the school bus service for our children. I know driving a busload of noisy children must be so challenging. The driver of my grandson’s bus is so careful about safety and always inventing fun ways to brighten the kids’ days.’
‘You always come through for us, sometimes at short notice for school trips. The drivers are friendly and always get us from A to B safely.’
‘As a school we rely on a good service for bus hire. Ritchies offers just that. A great company to work with.’
‘I have used Ritchies many times for our school trip. I have always found them to be reliable and punctual. Communication has been of a high standard leading up to our trips, and it has been reassuring to know key details were confirmed well in advance.’
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for safety on a bus?
Safety is a shared responsibility. Schools, caregivers and our teams must work together to make sure students can travel safely to and from school.
Schools are required to provide a safe environment for unloading and loading buses.
With caregivers, they’re responsible for student behaviour while they’re on the bus and for addressing student behaviour issues. The Ministry of Education provides useful and detailed guidance on roles and responsibilities. The NZ Transport Agency also has a complete guide on school bus safety for schools, and parents.
Who decides school bus routes, stops and eligibility?
The Ministry has the responsibility for route design and reviews. Our teams will work with schools on the safe siting of stops. The Ministry is also responsible for decisions in relation to eligibility for any services. Any queries in relation to these aspects of school services should go in the first instance to the school.
Who can parents talk to if they have a complaint or issues with a service?
Any complaints in relation to school bus services should go first to the school who can then work with our teams to investigate and take appropriate action if required. There’s more general information here on our website for parents and caregivers.
Do you allow scooters and skateboards on school buses?
Yes, but there may be some space limitations. Parents should be advised to check with their school bus controller for any local restrictions.
