Palmerston North

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Buses

Public buses operate throughout Palmerston North, covering local and regional areas with various routes available for commuters.

Sections

Overview of the Bus System in Palmerston North

The bus services in Palmerston North are operated by Horizons Regional Council under the brand name "GoHorizons". The system is designed to connect key areas within the city and surrounding suburbs, as well as provide links to nearby towns. The buses are reliable, affordable, and environmentally friendly, making them a great option for getting around.

Key Features of the Bus System

  1. Central Hub:

    • The main bus terminal is located at Main Street Terminal in the city center. Most routes start and end here, making it a convenient point for transfers.

  2. Coverage:

    • The bus network covers Palmerston Northโ€™s suburbs, including Highbury, Awapuni, Milson, Kelvin Grove, and Hokowhitu.
    • Regional services connect Palmerston North to nearby towns such as Feilding, Ashhurst, and Levin.

  3. Accessibility:

    • Buses are wheelchair accessible and cater to passengers with mobility needs.

Bus Schedules

  1. Frequency:

    • Most urban routes operate on a 30-minute to 1-hour frequency during weekdays.
    • Weekend services are less frequent, typically running every 1-2 hours.

  2. Operating Hours:

    • Buses generally run from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays.
    • Weekend services start later and end earlier, usually between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
    • Check the specific timetable for your route, as times may vary.

  3. Timetable Access:

    • Timetables are available online on the Horizons Regional Council website or at the Main Street Terminal.
    • Printed copies can also be found at the terminal or local libraries.

Costs and Ticketing

  1. Fares:

    • Adult fares for urban routes are typically NZD 2.50 per trip.
    • Concession fares (for children, students, and seniors) are available at a reduced rate, usually NZD 1.50.
    • Regional routes (e.g., to Feilding or Ashhurst) have higher fares, ranging from NZD 3.50 to NZD 6.00, depending on the distance.

  2. Payment Options:

    • Cash: You can pay directly to the driver when boarding. Exact change is preferred.
    • Bee Card: A prepaid smart card that offers discounted fares. Using a Bee Card reduces the cost of a trip to NZD 1.80 for adults and NZD 1.20 for concessions.
      • The Bee Card can be purchased online or at designated outlets, such as the Main Street Terminal.
      • Top-ups can be done online, at the terminal, or on the bus (cash only).

  3. Transfers:

    • If you need to transfer between buses, you may need to pay an additional fare unless you are using a Bee Card, which automatically calculates the best fare.

Popular Routes

  1. Urban Routes:

    • Route 5 (Awapuni): Connects the city center to the Awapuni suburb.
    • Route 6 (Milson): Serves the Milson area, including the Palmerston North Airport.
    • Route 7 (Hokowhitu): Links the city center to Massey University and Hokowhitu.
    • Route 12 (Highbury): Covers the Highbury suburb.

  2. Regional Routes:

    • Route 31 (Feilding): A popular route connecting Palmerston North to the nearby town of Feilding.
    • Route 30 (Ashhurst): Links the city to Ashhurst, a small town to the east.
    • Route 40 (Levin): Provides service to Levin, a town south of Palmerston North.

  3. Massey University Services:

    • Special buses run between the city center and Massey University, catering to students and staff. These buses are often free for university students with a valid ID.

Local Tips for Using the Bus System

  1. Plan Ahead:

    • Use the Horizons Regional Council website or apps like Google Maps to plan your journey and check real-time bus information.

  2. Bee Card Benefits:

    • If you plan to use the bus frequently, get a Bee Card to save money and avoid the hassle of carrying cash.

  3. Be Punctual:

    • Arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early, as buses generally run on time.

  4. Flagging the Bus:

    • At some stops, you may need to signal the driver by waving as the bus approaches to ensure it stops for you.

  5. Cultural Considerations:

    • Greet the driver with a friendly โ€œhelloโ€ or โ€œkia oraโ€ (a common Mฤori greeting) when boarding.
    • Thank the driver when exiting the bus, as this is customary in New Zealand.

  6. Off-Peak Travel:

    • If possible, travel during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) to avoid crowded buses.

  7. Weather Preparedness:

    • Palmerston North can be rainy and windy, so bring an umbrella or raincoat, as some bus stops may not have shelters.

Additional Resources

  • Horizons Regional Council Website: www.horizons.govt.nz
    • Includes timetables, fare information, and updates on services.
  • Bee Card Website: www.beecard.co.nz
    • For purchasing and managing your Bee Card.
  • Customer Service:
    • Visit the Main Street Terminal for assistance or call Horizons Regional Council at 0508 800 800 for inquiries.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll find it easy to navigate Palmerston Northโ€™s bus system and explore the city and its surroundings. Enjoy your time in this charming New Zealand city!