Online updates available for bus passengers using new service

Bus passengers using the controversial new Tauranga and Western Bay network can now go online to check any disruptions to their bus trips.

The Baybus website will be updated by 6pm each day with the following day's cancelled Bayhopper bus services, as notified by NZ Bus.

The rollout of the new routes on the new bus service has attracted criticism from its passengers since it started on December 10 last year.

A number of cancelled services and dropped trips have affected commuters, school children and parents, due to a nationwide bus driver shortage.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council public transport committee chairman Lyall Thurston has apologised for the challenges that have been experienced by some passengers.

"We acknowledge this is impacting on the trust and confidence in our public transport system and we are working extremely hard with NZ Bus to resolve the immediate issues," Thurston said.

Passengers can go to www.baybus.co.nz to help plan their journey or call 0800 4 BAY BUS