Hawke’s Bay Regional Council says local bus commuters are set to benefit from a significant improvement in their daily journeys, as 16 key bus stops across the region are upgraded to incorporate real-time information signs.
The improvements are an integral part of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Public Transport Plan and have been designed to enhance the overall user experience of public transport in the region, providing passengers with live, up-to-the-minute information on bus arrival times.
“We are excited to roll out these real-time signs, a vital step in our commitment to creating a more user-friendly public transport system for Hawke’s Bay. This investment directly responds to community feedback and will make a real difference to the daily lives of our bus users,” said Regional Transport Committee Chair, Martin Williams.
The Council says real-time information systems have been shown to boost passenger satisfaction, decrease perceived waiting times and increase public transport use, but up until now, the real-time information has only been available to those using Google and Apple maps for their bus journey planning.
The 16 signs will allow even more commuters to make informed choices through both visual and audio announcements, whether that’s confirming their next bus, choosing an alternative route, or simply enjoying a more relaxed wait.
“These signs will give clarity and convenience, helping people better manage their time and reducing the stress caused by unexpected delays. It’s about making public transport a more appealing and practical option for everyone in Hawke’s Bay,” says Mr Williams.
The 16 signs have been strategically positioned at high-traffic intersections, transit hubs, and critical routes within the GoBay network. This project forms part of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s ongoing commitment to modernising and improving local transport services, as outlined in the Regional Public Transport Plan.
The signs will be located as follows:
