GoBay public buses offer relief as petrol prices soar

Published: 19 March 2026

With fuel prices hitting Hawke’s Bay commuters hard, the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is urging people to consider travel around Napier and Hastings using the GoBay public bus network, as a more affordable and less stressful travel option.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Transport Committee Chair Neil Kirton says the costs of daily car commuting can quickly add up when fuel and parking are considered.

“Petrol prices are hitting everyone. Fuel prices and the cost of parking mean driving to work can quickly add up. For many commuters, especially those travelling regularly between our main centres, the bus is a simple way to bring those costs down straight away.”

He says this applies even to shorter daily trips. “Even shorter trips like Taradale into Napier can end up costing significantly more by car once parking is included,” Mr Kirton says.

A review of the most common trips people in the community takes shows that switching from driving to the GoBay bus network can save hundreds of dollars a month, depending on the route.

Cost comparisons

These estimates are based on an average petrol vehicle using around 8L per 100km, petrol at around $2.80 per litre, and typical CBD parking rates. Bus fares are based on adult Bee Card fares on the GoBay network on one or two zone travel.

A cheaper, easier option
The GoBay network, updated earlier this year, provides direct routes across Napier and Hastings with links to key destinations such as EIT, the Airport and the Regional Sports Park.

“With fuel prices rising, this is the right moment for people to try the bus. Even replacing two or three car trips a week makes a noticeable difference to your wallet,” says Councillor Kirton.

Regional Council Transport Manager, Russell Turnbull says the region is at a turning point.

“Traffic volumes are climbing every year, and fuel prices are doing the same. Jumping on the bus is one of the simplest ways people can help ease congestion across our network.”

Visit https://www.gobay.co.nz/ for more details

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