Bus timetables back to normal

Regular weekday timetables for Metlink buses resumed on Monday after the network operated on enhanced Saturday schedules for most of the month to alleviate the impact of the national driver shortage.

Rail services suspended in December have also been restored, although an ongoing rail staff shortage could cause some trains to be cancelled.

The return of regular weekday timetables will increase bus services by about 20%, notably at peak times, however, the planned suspension of some buses continues, and cancellations are still likely.

Metlink is short 125 drivers from the 650 required to run the bus network at full capacity.

Greater Wellington Transport Committee Chair Thomas Nash said suspended buses would eventually be reinstated as overseas drivers gradually enter the country.

“We’ve asked our operators to step up recruitment but until enough drivers complete their training, the bus network remains vulnerable to cancellations,” Cr Nash said.

“To make bus driving an attractive career option for local and international recruits, we are continuing to work with the Government, operators and unions to improve pay and conditions.

“In recent years,we’ve exerted greater influenceover the operation of the region’s bus network.

‘We’ve intervened to increase wages, to reduce split shifts and to improve facilities. We’ll continue to intervene to make sure our public transport system delivers for passengers, drivers and everyone in the region,” Cr Nash said.

“We’re grateful for the patience and understanding of our passengers as we work to resolve the driver shortage and restore reliability to the network.”

Before travelling, passengers should check online timetables at the Metlink app or website, as printed timetables in bus stops don’t show which services are cancelled or suspended.

Passengers can also create a My Metlink account to receive service notifications concerning selected bus routes and train lines.

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