A new bus stop is being introduced to the Katikati Express bus route.

Starting on Monday, November 9, the Katikati Express bus (route 80) will stop at Fairview Estate (off Sharp Road, Aongatete) and Morton Road on all off-peak trips.

The new bus stop at Fairview Estate has been made possible by a partnership between the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and the management at Fairview Estate.

Regional Council Public Transport Committee chair Andrew von Dadelszen says it's fantastic to see options for public transport opening up along the State Highway 2 corridor.

'The new bus stop will benefit residents of Fairview Estate who will be able to use public transport to access both Katikati and Tauranga, and it will also enable residents of Katikati and Tauranga to travel to Fairview Estate.”

Fairview Estate's Aran Blackmore is pleased to be able to offer this service to residents and members.

'I'm also excited about the opportunity to showcase Fairview Estate, with its cafe, country club, golf course and residential living, to those travelling from Katikati and Tauranga who may not have been before.”

Due to the high risk involved in stopping buses along SH2 to pick up and drop off passengers, Regional Council has been working to find alternative locations off the main road.

Andrew von Dadelszen. Supplied photo.

A statement from the council says this makes it safer for passengers, bus drivers and other road users.

An additional stop on Morton Road will provide a safe alternative to catching the bus on SH2 and utilises the existing shelter.

Buses will stop at Fairview Estate at 9.13am, 10.58am, 12.58pm and 2.58pm heading towards Tauranga; and they will stop at 10.20am, 12.12pm, 2.22pm and 4.22pm on the return journey from Tauranga to Katikati.

Supergold cardholders with registered Bee cards travel for free after 9am.

A detailed timetable can be found at https://www.baybus.co.nz.