Support for North Canterbury bus services
From local democracy reporter David Hill:
Direct bus services connecting Rangiora and Kaiapoi to Christchurch have continued to be well-supported, despite the challenges of Covid-
19.
Environment Canterbury (ECan) says the Rangiora (91) and Kaiapoi (92) services have enjoyed a solid 18 months, since they were introduced in January 2021, despite the various challenges from Covid and driver shortages.
‘‘The past year has seen more people working from home and reluctant to use public transport due to an increase in community transmission of Covid-19,’’ an ECan spokesperson said.
‘‘Despite these circumstances, May 2022 was the best month for the Kaiapoi service since it began, and the Rangiora service has also performed well during May and June.’’
The Kaiapoi service had 2380 passengers in May, while the Rangiora service had well over 3816 passengers in May and 3382 in June.
Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon is a regular user of ECan’s bus service.
‘‘I use it myself when heading into Christchurch in the morning for regular council-related meetings and it’s fast, convenient, affordable and on-time - all things that a great bus service should be.
‘‘It’s great to see growth in the service from Kaiapoi and generally to see that more residents are using bus services.
‘‘For anyone who commutes to Christchurch for work, I’d strongly encourage you to give this service a go.’’
All other Waimakariri services have also shown an increase in patronage since half-price fares were introduced in April, the ECan spokesperson said.
Overall bus patronage for Greater Christchurch for the year to June 2022 was 8.7 million boardings, which was just two-thirds of pre-Covid service levels.
In contrast the MyWay bus service in Timaru has enjoyed patronage at 5.6% higher than pre-Covid levels, which will be good news for advocates hoping to bring the service to Waimakariri.
Last month, MyWay recorded its second highest number of rides in a day with 614, while daily average rides ranged from 490 to 580.
Similar on-demand trials in Greater Christchurch were being considered as part of ECan’s Long-Term Plan and the Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan, the ECan spokesperson said.
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.3% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.7% I want to be able to choose.
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47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
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32.2% Yes!
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67.8% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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