Public transport support on its way to help customers this cruise ship season

The Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) has voted to fund additional public transport services this cruise ship season. 

Following the 2024-34 Long-Term Plan deliberations and adoption earlier this year, no funding was made available for the support measures that were in place last season. 

Following a Notice of Motion from Councillor Vicky Southworth, the Council approved up to $210,000 for on-street ticketing and additional buses (for 29 of the cruise ship affected days) to help with the extra customers expected on large cruise ship days. Both initiatives will be funded through Public Transport Reserves. 

Councillor Southworth was particularly concerned about the impact the cruise season could have on school students and their exams. 

“It’s important we maintain our great public transport system, and support students, other residents and visitors to get where they want to go. We particularly want to ensure students are able to attend their exams and aren’t held up by over-occupied or delayed buses due to the extra customers from cruise ships,” she said. 

“From speaking with members of the community, I know this will help make a tangible difference, so I am happy with this result,” she added. 

Chair Craig Pauling backed her call. 

“I think it’s important we do what we can to ensure our public transport is well set-up for the extra customers it may receive,” he said. 

Staff will work on getting these provisions in place as soon as possible.