Express Rolleston to the city routes trial to continue under Metro
The Rolleston–City Direct bus trial will continue, with Metro taking over operation of the service from 10 August.
In collaboration with Bentley Coachlines, Routes 84 & 85 Rolleston/City Direct launched in September 2025, offering more services for the Rolleston community with improved frequency.
From 10 August 2026, the Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) will take over delivery of the trial bus service, providing a consistent Metro experience for customers.
Changes to the bus service from 10 August
As a result of this, the following Rolleston to City Direct service elements will change:
- The bus timetable will undergo some minor timing changes
- Following customer feedback, later trips will be included in the new bus timetable, allowing for greater transport provision for shift workers
- The new timetable will be optimised to align better with the capacity required, resulting in a reduction of two trips
- Customers will now be able to pay Metro fares of $3 or less on all trips when they pay with Metrocard or contactless with Motu Move
- Aligning with Metro allows customers to use Metro’s bike racks, pets on public transport availability and free transfers within two hours
- Customers will board and disembark the service from within the city interchange building, rather than outside it
- Audio announcements will be available for trips arriving/departing the interchange, allowing for better accessibility
All other aspects of the routes will remain the same, including the availability of hail and ride.
More bus options for the Rolleston community
Public Transport Core Service Co-Lead Councillor Nettles Lamont said Bentley’s work has been of great benefit enabling the exploration of a different delivery approach.
“The first 11-months of the trial, and subsequent customer survey, have provided us with strong insights into the needs of the Rolleston community, which has been helpful for this transition,” she said.
“We are grateful to Bentley for the service it provided to this community, and we wish them well as they continue to service other communities. We now look forward to offering more choice to the Rolleston community through increased Metro services,” Councillor Lamont added.
Bus trial's future
The trial is set to continue until June 2027. Council will consider the future of the service through its upcoming Long-Term Plan process.
The routes’ timetable is subject to be altered again in future as required. Changes to route configuration will be considered, following feedback from customers.