Competition likely on bus routes

A new bus service from the Hutt Valley to Wellington Airport could create some competition for the capital’s existing bus services.

SkyBus has expressed an interest in opening such a service.

If successful, they would be in competition with the Hutt Valley Airport Flyer – a service that operator NZ Bus had considered ending earlier this year.

SkyBus chief executive Michael Sewards said initial work on the service had included the airport connection to Lower Hutt.

‘‘SkyBus has a strong level of interest in pursuing the development of a service for this important and growing city and airport.’’

The company already operates buses in Auckland, Melbourne and on the Gold Coast.

Its new service could include a ‘‘significant investment’’ in a new fleet.

That would include wifi, digital ticketing solutions and competitive pricing, including the company’s ‘‘kids travel free’’ policy.

‘‘Our initial work on this new market opportunity has included the airport connection to the Lower Hutt area. We hope to have further updates as to the progress of our enquiries in due course.’’

SkyBus has operated airport connections in Australia and New Zealand for 40 years.

Its Auckland and Melbourne services run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In July, SkyBus plans to launch an Airport Express service to Auckland’s North Shore.

NZ Bus chief commercial officer Scott Thorne was not willing to discuss how a SkyBus alternative would affect his company’s service.

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester said a new service would bring competition to the city.

‘‘Hopefully, it will lead to more frequent service, competitive pricing and increased consumer choice.

‘‘This is great news for Wellingtonians and our region.’’

Hutt City councillor Campbell Barry, who advocated to save the Airport Flyer, said it was positive SkyBus had expressed their interest.

‘‘There’s quite a lot of uncertainty there. We’re certainly working with them [NZ Bus] to make sure that service stays.’’