Using a mobile phone app, customers can order rides from 17 seater buses operating without set routes between flexible pick-up and drop-off locations, or ‘virtual stops’.
The On Demand service, run with a fleet of five buses, has been trialled during the last 12 months with a flat fare of $2.50 to travel between Kenepuru down to Grenada North.
The service has proved popular with commuters and people just wanting to get round the area during the day, whether to see friends, go shopping or access community facilities or get to school.
Craig Chin, Chief Executive of Mana Coaches, which runs the service, said his team was proud of the partnership with the Greater Wellington Regional Council and community.
“Our Mana team is really conscious of the improved community and transport connections it offers,” Mr Chin said.
“Our team is focused on providing excellent customer service and constantly seeking to serve Tawa residents better.”
Tawa On Demand is the smartest and cheapest way to get to: Outlet City, Kenepuru Hospital, Tawa Junction and local train stations like Linden, Tawa, Redwood and Takapu Road.
Customers can travel anywhere across the suburb from 6.30 am to 8.00 pm Monday to Friday and 8.30 am to 7.30 pm on Saturdays.
Tawa on-demand customers can download the Via app for free from their mobile device’s app store or by visiting: metlink.org.nz/ondemand.