NZ Bus Sells NorthBus Business

NZ Bus Sells NorthBus Business

NZ Bus announced today the sale of its NorthBus business based in Whangarei to Ritchies Transport Limited. NorthBus is a 41 bus business, operating a mix of Urban, Contracted and School runs.

Since purchasing the business in January 2007, NZ Bus has expanded operations by winning the Northland Regional Council’s tender to run the CityLink services in 2008 and also winning additional services with the NZ Refining Company. NZ Bus has invested in new buses, new business systems and training for the 45 people working in the business.

Zane Fulljames, NZ Bus’ Chief Executive Officer, noted that “Ritchies as a professional operator will continue to deliver a quality service to customers in Whangarei and this was a key factor in our decision making process. The sale of NorthBus will allow us to focus all of our attention into core markets.”

Andrew Ritchie, Ritchies’ Director, said “Ritchies are pleased to be able to expand its business in Northland, and are looking forward to being of service to the people of Whangarei. It will be business as usual with very little changes for the public. However we will be undergoing a rebranding over the next few months.”

The sale process will be completed by 20 May, and NZ Bus is working with the new owners to ensure a smooth transition for all stakeholders.

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