Coromandel Town-Thames Connector bus trial - now closed
The Thames-Coromandel Town Connector bus trial concluded on Tuesday 18 June 2024
More than 1,000 passenger trips were made on the Connector service from its start on 18 December 2023. The Connector service was funded by a Central Government storm recovery grant. The aim was to help people access healthcare, education, job opportunities, appointments and to stay connected with their whānau.
With no further funding available for our Council to continue the trial past 18 June, the Connector service will be wrapping up. Our Council will share the data from the trial with Waikato Regional Council, who are responsible for the long-term planning, management and provision of public transport in our region.
Coromandel Taxis become aware over the six months of the trial how vital the service is to our community and how much of a positive impact it has had on the people who regularly use it. This is why Coromandel Taxi has decided to continue this as a private service for the near future, with some other minor changes.
Find out more
Communitysurvey
The trial began following a survey run by our Council, which received 170 responses. Out of these:
• 86 percent of respondents said they would use a Connector service between Coromandel Town and Thames if it was available.
• People felt the service was important as it would increase access for people needing healthcare (including the dentist, eye/ear checks, and the hospital), groceries, as well as work opportunities and other appointments.
• Respondents hoped it would reduce isolation and help people to travel safely and feel more independent. Some also felt it would also be helpful for tourists, help to reduce traffic on the road, and be beneficial for the environment.
• Eighteen percent of respondents said that age, or a disability, prevented them from driving.
• Just over half of respondents said they would use the service regularly (at least once a month).
• Medical appointments, visiting shops, pharmacies and banks, and connecting with family/whānau were the main reasons given for using the service.
• Fridays were the most popular day requested for a service, while the interest the remaining weekdays was relatively even. Sundays were the least popular day.
Contact details
Community Partnerships team
07 868 0200