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The Otago Regional Council (ORC) has completed a Sub-Regional Public Transport Business Case investigating options for public transport across the Otago Central Lakes sub-region.
ORC Councillors voted yesterday to endorse the business case which identified a preferred option of a two-route network providing four return trips a day, seven days a week. The proposed services would connect Alexandra, Clyde and Cromwell on one route and Wānaka, Luggate, Pisa Moorings, Cromwell, Frankton and Queenstown on the other.
The next step is for the proposal to be considered for inclusion into the ORC’s draft 2027–30 Long-Term Plan early next year. This will provide an opportunity for communities to have their sayon the proposal, including how the local share of the service could be funded through rates and fares, as well as routes and scheduling.
Transport Portfolio co-lead councillor Matt Hollyer says the proposal is an important step towards giving these communities more choice in how they travel.
“In an increasingly inter-connected region now is the time to consider the opportunities a regular, reliable public transport service could bring to our communities. Across the region people are facing increasing transport pressures and costs, without alternatives to using their cars to get to work, medical appointments and take part in social and work opportunities,” says Matt
“The business case gives us a practical starting point for asking ratepayers whether they want us to build a public transport network that works for many in our Central Otago communities. It is designed to be affordable and scalable, so we can respond as demand grows.”
The Central Lakes sub-region is experiencing rapid population growth and increasing visitor demand. This service would contribute to reducing ongoing congestion issues and transport-related emissions through less reliance on private vehicles.”
The two-route network was identified as the best-value starting point following an assessment of a wide range of potential public transport options. The service would initially operate as a trial, with a potential launch in early 2028, subject to funding being secured.
The service will cost about $2.93 million per year to operate, and ORC would seek NZ Transport Agency co-funding through the 2027–30 National Land Transport Programme as well as through ORC’s Long-Term Plan 2027-30.
Matt says the trial would provide an opportunity to test what works and build the service around the needs of the community.
“We know it will take time to build patronage and establish new travel habits. Starting with a trial allows us to see how people use the service, learn from that experience and make changes as needed. This is about putting the foundations in place for better regional connectivity and creating a public transport option that can grow with these communities.”
The network is intended to complement wider public transport improvements across Otago and support aspirations for stronger connectivity between the region’s communities.
