Tokoroa electric bus up and running

Tokoroa passengers are now able to experience a quieter, smoother and more sustainable ride, with a new electric bus joining local services in time for the winter school holidays.

To celebrate its arrival, passengers can take advantage of the BUSIT Free Family Adventure Pass on the new electric bus, operated by Tranzit Coachlines in partnership with Waikato Regional Council, during the winter school holidays that run from Saturday, 4 July to Sunday, 19 July.

The initiative is designed to encourage more people to give the bus a go, particularly families looking for affordable holiday activities.

Tranzit Coachlines Area Manager Connor Mear says the new electric bus is another positive step for public transport in the Waikato region.

“As a New Zealand family-owned business, Tranzit was proud to introduce the Waikato region’s first electric bus into Taupō in 2023, in partnership with Waikato Regional Council, and we have since introduced a further eight electric buses into Waipā, including two double-deck electric buses,” says Connor.

“Having an electric bus join our Tokoroa services reflects the joint commitment to secure a modern low-emission vehicle.”

Waikato Regional Council Transport Committee Chair Angela Strange says the new bus will deliver immediate benefits for passengers.

“The introduction of a new electric bus in place of one from the existing diesel fleet in South Waikato is expected to positively influence patronage over time. The community asked for improved reliability, more accessible travel and a more comfortable ride in all seasons,” says Councillor Strange.

“Modern electric buses typically provide all that and a quieter, smoother journey, which can improve the overall passenger experience and make public transport a more attractive option for both existing and new users.”

Families are invited to visit the ‘Out and About’ event at Tokoroa Library on Monday, 6 July, between 10am and 1pm. The community event will give locals the opportunity to learn more about the new electric bus, Bee Cards and concessions, timetable and journey planning. Children are encouraged to enjoy a paper cut-out electric bus activity and giveaways.

The new bus will operate on the BUSIT 30 and 31 services. The 30 Tokoroa Circuit service travels around Tokoroa town, and the 31 District Connector service travels between Tokoroa, Lichfield, Putāruru and Tīrau, weekdays only.

The remaining Tokoroa bus fleet will continue to operate with diesel buses for the moment, with Waikato Regional Council remaining committed to supporting the New Zealand Government’s decarbonisation goals. A phased transition is planned, with new electric buses progressively introduced to replace diesel vehicles as they reach the end of their service life, ensuring the fleet moves toward a fully zero-emissions future by 2035.

Quick facts about the new electric bus

·         Owned and operated by Tranzit Group, the new electric bus has been manufactured by CRRC.

·         The bus has 353kw of batteries meaning it can travel around 300km on one charge.

·         USB charging ports allow passengers to charge their devices while travelling.

·         Air conditioning provides a more comfortable ride in all seasons.

·         Large front and rear doors help create a spacious, easy-to-board passenger experience.

·         An onboard bike rack gives passengers greater flexibility to connect with cycleways and active transport options.

·         Two wheelchair bays and an easy-access ramp support safer, more accessible travel, with driver assistance available when needed.