Senior citizens urged to take a free bus ride

Seniors in New Plymouth have missed the bus while their small town friends are enjoying free rides.

A scheme introduced by the Taranaki Regional Council giving Super Gold Card holders free off-peak public transport has taken off in Patea, Waverley, Opunake, and Inglewood but stalled in the region's only city.

The south Taranaki bus services are on trial until June 31 when a decision will be made about their future.

TRC director of operations Rob Phillips said a boost in passenger numbers, attributed to the Super Gold Card holders, has come at the right time.

The New Plymouth City Link, which includes Waitara, is permanent but Mr Phillips said with 2000 card holders using the service in November and almost 2400 in December, this was a minor change from before project was introduced in November.

He estimated there were more than 15,000 people around the region who could benefit from the free rides.

"We think it's a marvellous opportunity," Mr Phillips said.

"It's a central government initiative but we think it's a good one. Senior citizens are one group of people who have always wanted free transport."

"We'd be keen to get New Plymouth gold card users to take advantage."

New Zealanders aged 65 and over are eligible for a Super Gold Card, as are younger people who are receiving NZ Superannuation or the Veterans' Pension.

Off-peak bus times are from 9am until 3pm weekdays and all day at weekends.

- © Fairfax NZ News