Manawatu Standard

Public transport changes for Horizons

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Horizons Regional Council’s bus service levels will increase from today and the Capital Connection train service will resume from tomorrow as the country moves to alert level three.

Both services will coronaviru­s regulation­s.

Horizons transport manager Rhona Hewitt said under alert level three, the use of passenger transport was allowed for activities such as accessing goods and essential services, commuting to school or work, and travelling to local low-risk recreation areas.

‘‘While fewer people should be travelling on public transport, clear instructio­ns around the number of passengers ... and seating arrangemen­ts are being put up inside the buses to help guide customers,’’ she said.

‘‘The possibilit­y of capacity constraint­s mean that you should allow plenty of time to reach your destinatio­n. Please try and avoid peak times unless you are a worker or are travelling to an educationa­l facility.

‘‘If the bus or train has reached its allowed capacity, it will not be able to pick up additional passengers ... we ask that caregivers wait with children at bus stops..’’

Hewitt urged passengers to fill out contract tracing forms when using the bus. Passengers are asked to call Horizons on 0508 800 800, or fill in the online form.

‘‘While most bus services will be returning to normal... It is recommend that people regularly check out Horizons’ bus notices webpage for the most up-to-date timetable informatio­n.

Hewitt said the Capital Connection commuter train would also resume normal services.

‘‘Carriages will be set up to be covid-19 compliant, meaning a smaller number of passengers than usual can be carried to respect physical distancing.

‘‘The cafe on all services will not be open.’’ follow

 ?? DAVID UNWIN/STUFF ?? Horizons’ bus services will increase under alert level three.
DAVID UNWIN/STUFF Horizons’ bus services will increase under alert level three.

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