Tauranga’s fixed Route 51 struggled with low patronage, failing to meet the diverse mobility needs of the community. It required an innovative replacement to grow usage.
BayBus was launched in partnership with Ritchies, using a fleet of new, fully electric minivans. In the first six months, the service achieved a phenomenal 536% increase in ridership compared to the route it replaced, demonstrating immediate community adoption.
The service has consistently received a 93% five-star rating for convenience and reliability with the trial now extended through to mid-2026.
Our client has been able to promote the convenience and appeal of this new mode of public transport.
‘Sometimes life doesn’t run to schedule. Now neither does your ride.’
Client: BOPRC
Location: Tauranga South
Partners: NZ Transport Agency, Via, Mercury
Pick up points: flexible
Launch: March 2024
