GoBay bus patronage surges after network launch

Published: 1 April 2026

Patronage on the GoBay bus network continues to rise, with new figures showing a significant increase in patronage compared with the same period last year.

New data from the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council shows bus boardings reached 13,896 for the week beginning 23 March 2026, compared with 12,373 during the same week last year, a year on year increase of just over 12 percent.

The growth has been climbing steadily since the bus network launch on 25 January, likely reflecting improved access to more direct bus services and rising fuel costs.

New network supporting growth

The new GoBay bus network offers better connections between Napier and Hastings and better access to key regional hubs, including Hawke’s Bay Airport and the Sports Park, making it a more viable option for people.

Regional Transport Committee Chair Neil Kirton says the practical improvements made to the GoBay network are clearly reflected in the data. “It’s encouraging to see these changes delivering real benefits for our region. The upgrades have now made public transport an even better option for everyday travel, and that’s showing up in consistent patronage growth.”

Bee Card sales spike

Alongside the rise in patronage, sales of the prepay bus card known as Bee Card from the Council’s Dalton Street offices have jumped by over 50 percent in recent weeks.
Russell Turnbull, Transport Manager at the Regional Council, says the increase in sales points to more residents trying the bus network for the first time.

“We’re seeing strong take-up from people trying the bus for the first time. Rising fuel prices are a factor, but improved services mean people can now see that bus travel is simple, reliable, comfortable, and good for the environment.”

Growth in first quarter

Weekly patronage has climbed steadily through the first quarter, rising from about 6,000 weekly boardings in early January to nearly 14,000 by late March .

With passenger numbers trending upward, the Regional Council is closely monitoring capacity to ensure services remain efficient and reliable. “We’re tracking patronage daily, especially on services that are approaching full capacity. Where resources allow, we’ll also look at increasing capacity where we can to make sure the network can continue to support the growing demand,” says Mr Turnbull.

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