An Ōamaru to Palmerston community shuttle is about to hit the road.

A community transport trial for the route starts on Tuesday, 4 November, for people wanting to travel to Dunedin from Ōamaru, or other areas between.

The service is run by volunteers and offers a low-cost transport option three times a week.

Steering group chairman Trevor Goodin says he hopes the initiative is supported by the community.

“By using the shuttle and giving us their feedback. 

“Our aim is to make it easier for people to travel from North Otago to Dunedin for appointments, shopping, recreation or meeting family and friends.”

The shuttle will leave Ōamaru on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, with stops at the North End, South Hill and Awamoa. 

It will also stop at Maheno, Herbert, Hampden and Moeraki on the way, for pickups and drop-offs.

The shuttle will connect with the 11am Orbus route 1 bus from Palmerston to Dunedin, arriving at the Dunedin Bus Hub at 12pm. 

It leaves the Dunedin Bus Hub again at 6pm, for Palmerston, where the shuttle will be to meet passengers and take them back to Ōamaru, arriving at approximately 7:45pm.

Passengers from Palmerston (and other points between) are welcome to use the service in reverse, travelling north at 11am, and returning to Palmerston later in the afternoon, Trevor says.

Koha for the shuttle is $5 cash each way, and Orbus fares range from $1.50 to $2.50 each way with a Bee Card (depending on whether a passenger qualifies for a concession available with a Bee Card) or $3 cash.

More info on fares, timetables and Bee Card can be found online. 

This service is separate from the Dunedin Hospital shuttle, which Trevor is currently operating, that is to be taken over by Hato Hone St John.

Funds from the Otago Regional Council and contributions from the community (including many volunteer hours) are helping to support the community shuttle’s running costs.

“We also welcome additional volunteer drivers and volunteers for other roles such as taking bookings, managing rosters or general administration.

“All volunteers will need to complete a police check,” Trevor says.

Bookings open on Monday (27 October) and are essential. 

More details about the service will be released shortly. To book, phone or text 027 214 4131.