The recent introduction of a more modern vehicle will address capacity and accessibility concerns on the popular Bay of Plenty Regional Council contracted Te Puke bus services.

The new bus can accommodate 37 passengers and means more seats, more space and more comfort for those making the daily weekday journey on the Te Puke-Tauranga Commuter (route 221).

The same vehicle will be used on the Te Puke-Tauranga Shopper (route 222) that operates Wednesdays and Fridays.

Accessibility for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility has been greatly improved too, with a super low floor and better wheelchair access on the new vehicle.

BOPRC public transport committee chair Lyall Thurston sees the addition of the new bus as a reflection of the growing appetite for alternative modes of transport.

'It's great to see such a demand for public transport in Te Puke and we're very happy to be able to provide a larger vehicle to accommodate the increased patronage.”

In addition to the Te Puke upgrade, public feedback has resulted in another route for the Western Bay of Plenty region with the new Town Connector service linking Waihi Beach, Waihi and Katikati every Thursday.

Route information and timetables are available at www.baybus.co.nz or by calling 0800 4 BAY BUS (0800 4 229 28).