Mangawhai’s free summer bus service has been a big hit.
Locals and visitors, accompanied by boogie boards, beach bags, skateboards and shopping bags, piled on board in even greater numbers this summer than in previous years.
Close to 3000 trips were taken on the bus, which ran between Mangawhai Village and the beach daily from December 27 to January 17, and then every weekend and public holiday through to February 8.
This is the third year the trial has been run, supported by Kaipara District Council, Northland Regional Council, and Waka Kotahi NZTA.
The increase in patronage amounted to a 17 per cent rise compared to the same period last year. Improvements were made following community feedback, including adding an extra stop at the backpackers and installing specific signage so the stops were more easily identified.
Kaipara community advisor Gail Fotheringham says despite Covid restrictions, Mangawhai has still hosted lots of visitors and been incredibly busy over the summer months.
“The bus eases some of the congestion created between the village and the heads, and alleviates pressure on the carpark at the beach and other places like the Mangawhai Activity Zone,” she says.
“The service also supports community members who don’t drive or own a vehicle.”
The project team will now look at future feasibility and funding options.
