The Thames “Connector public bus service is one-year-old. The good news is that patronage of the service is continuing to grow at a steady pace, and the public seem to be very happy with the service.

Figures for the last week in November 2018 were 62 paying adults, 10 paying children, two under fives (free), and 196 Gold Card users – making a total for that week of 270 passengers. In a comparable week in February 2018 there were 70 paying adults, 14 paying children, seven under fives, and 156 Gold Card passengers – a total for that week of 247.

Remember that Thames-Coromandel District Council is still reimbursed by the government for Gold Card passengers so it does not miss out on revenue.

I continue to hear heartwarming and in some cases life-changing stories from people using the service. An example such as a spouse/partner who no longer drives who is now able to take the bus to visit her partner in the Booms Retirement village. Previously this was a real struggle if not impossible.

Then there is the case of a woman recently widowed who thought she might have to move from a hilltop suburb because she expected at the next review she might lose her drivers license. But with the bus service available she has decided to stay in her home.

I also hear excellent feedback from users about the operators Mohan and Jaspreet and about the drivers courtesy and helpfulness.

BusIt has posted a reminder of the Thames bus service on its Facebook page.

“Heading to Thames these holidays?

Sit back, relax, and enjoy being driven in the Thames Connector bus while you’re there. It’s a little bus with a lotta heart, friendly drivers and aircon!!!!!!!!

Also, it’s just $2 per ride! See the details here – http://busit.co.nz/regional-services/thames-connector/
Thames-Coromandel District Council “