MEDIA RELEASE

Monday, May 13, 2013

Surfing encouraged onboard commuter bus

There’s no need to log off when hopping aboard Horizons Regional Council’s Levin to Palmerston North commuter bus service, with free Wi-Fi being trialled as part of a new bus contract.

From Monday May 20 Madge Coachlines will take over operation of the popular commuter service and Horizons transport planner Wayne Wallace says the free Wi-Fi trial is just one of a number of improvements planned.

“Our Levin to Palmerston North service is consistently well patronised,” Mr Wallace says.

“Trips made on the service are expected to reach 11,748 for the 2012-13 financial year and, with around half of New Zealand’s population now owning smart phones, the addition of Wi-Fi makes good sense for our passengers.

“To our knowledge, the Levin to Palmerston North commuter service is one of the first of its kind in the country to provide Wi-Fi and we will be very interested to see how passengers respond.”

Fares on the commuter service have remained steady since 2003 and will increase by $1 on average from Monday 20 May in response to increased fuel and operating costs. However, this will be accompanied by the introduction of a student fare aimed at tertiary students studying in Palmerston North.

“Our new student fare will be $5 each way if using pre-paid travel card, GoCard, or $7 by cash,” Mr Wallace says.

The Wi-Fi trial will be in place for the next 12 months and its continuation will be based on uptake.

The fare changes and Wi-Fi trial will take effect from Monday 20 May. More information about the service including timetables and fares is available online at www.horizons.govt.nz

ENDS

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