ORC is investigating how public transport could provide more travel choices and better connect communities across the region.
Otago’s Central Lakes and Upper Clutha communities are growing, and more people are travelling between towns for work, education, appointments, shopping and recreation.
Two proposed services have recently moved forward following business case work. Both are proposed as trials and would be subject to funding and consideration through ORC’s 2027–30 Long-Term Plan process.
A proposed two-route network would connect communities including Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell and Wānaka, with connections through to Frankton and Queenstown.
The preferred option would provide four return trips a day, seven days a week. It has been identified as the best-value starting point following an assessment of a range of potential public transport options.
The proposed service would initially operate as a trial, with a potential start in early 2028 if funding is secured.
A separate proposed service would connect Wānaka, Albert Town, Three Parks and Lake Hāwea.
The business case recommends an introductory service with eight trips a day, seven days a week. The proposed two-year trial would give the community an opportunity to see how people use the service and help inform future decisions.
The proposed service would be considered through ORC’s 2027–30 Long-Term Plan process, with funding dependent on both the local contribution and potential government co-funding.
Neither service has been approved to begin operating yet.
The next step for both proposals is consideration through ORC’s 2027–30 Long-Term Plan process. If included as part of the draft Long-Term Plan consultation early next year, communities will have the opportunity to have their say on these proposals, including the benefits of the services and how their local share of the cost could be funded.
If funding is secured, both services could potentially begin as trials in early 2028.
The proposals are part of wider work to improve regional public transport and give people more choice in how they travel as Otago’s communities grow.
