Changes to bus service may include phone app

A smartphone app and a new ticketing system are among the transport options being discussed for Taranaki’s public transport service.

Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) transport manager Chris Clarke said the new app was still very much in the planning stage, but the new ticket system should be up and running by April next year.

‘‘This will make it easier, simpler and faster to buy a bus ticket and board a bus in Taranaki,’’ Clarke said.

TRC is one of seven councils nationwide which are working with the New Zealand Transport Agency to upgrade their ticket system to enable passengers to buy a ticket, top-up a pre-paid card or cancel a lost or damaged card online.

But cash can still be used on the buses, he said.

Clarke said to drive change and further improvement, there needed to be more people using the buses.

He said a common question was about the size of buses, with suggestions that smaller buses could be used for off-peak services. But the bus network was also tied to the school bus service, he said. ‘‘Smaller buses are not practical as it’s more efficient and better value for money to operate one bus all day, rather than swapping between two smaller buses to meet fluctuations in passenger numbers.

‘‘We agree services could be improved and we’re continuously working on this.’’

He said the bus app, which is still in the development stage, will be an information hub for passengers.

‘‘What we’ve got a vision for is sort of a one stop shop for passenger’s PT needs.’’

He said the app could also allow patrons to book the connector service from New Plymouth to Hawera. Bookings are compulsory for the first trip into New Plymouth and the last return trip to Hawera.

‘‘We’re just trying things quick and easy.’’ to make