Free Bus Ride on short ‘Circuit’ for America’s Cup

The Auckland Regional Council and Stagecoach are set to launch a new inner city bus service in the CBD in time for the start of the America’s Cup, free of charge to the public.

‘City Circuit’ buses will start rolling on Auckland streets at the end of the month, moving passengers clockwise in a loop around key destinations such as The Edge entertainment area, Auckland University, the Viaduct Basin and Queen Street every 10 minutes, from 8am to 6pm every day, including weekends.

The new service is being hailed by Auckland Regional Council as the best way to get from A-to-B in the central city area.

“City Circuit will be the simplest way to get around the inner city,” said Gwen Bull, Auckland Regional Council Chair. “With many thousands of extra people visiting the Viaduct and CBD during the next 6 months for the America’s Cup, an easily recognisable, hassle-free bus service will be invaluable in moving people around the retail precinct.”

As with other successful route-specific services such as the ’Link’, the bright red City Circuit buses will be easily distinguishable from other buses. They are also more environmentally friendly than older fleets, with only diesel-powered low-sulphur (350ppm) ‘Euro 3’ buses being used. Gull is the supplier of diesel, providing the low-sulphur fuel.

“Cleaner air for Aucklanders is an absolute priority for this Council and many Aucklanders, and the introduction of a new service specifically requiring more fuel-efficient vehicles is a step in the right direction for public transport.”

Stagecoach Executive Chairman, Ross Martin, highlighted the benefit of a high-quality, high frequency service for Aucklanders and tourists. “City Circuit is a CBD-specific service, with the sole purpose of moving people quickly and conveniently around key destinations within the CBD boundary. The low emission, buses will stop at 11 bus stops on the route and bright red timetable cases at stops will make them easily identifiable.

“The launch of City Circuit is on right on the mark, with the America’s Cup, summer holidays, and Christmas shopping just around the corner. We’re excited about working with the ARC to promote this service as the first choice for CBD patrons.”

The ARC will subsidise the service. An application has been submitted to Transfund for a financial contribution via its Kick-Start funding scheme.

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