All Aboard!

Levin residents Barbara Beckett and Bryce Narin catching a free ride on the new Levin to Waikanae bus service.

Levin's new off-peak Levin to Waikanae bus service launched on Tuesday, and was almost at full capacity.

More than 30 people hopped on the 9.30am bus, mostly heading to Waikanae to visit family and friends, or to go shopping in Paraparaumu.

The two-year trial bus service operated by Uzabus is a joint venture between Horizons Regional Council and the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

The twice-weekly service on Tuesday and Thursdays, which can cater for up to 45 passengers per bus, departs 9.30am from outside Te Takere on Bath St, stopping in Manakau and Otaki before arriving at Waikanae Station at 10.15am to connect with the 10.30am train.

The returning bus departs from Waikanae Station at 2.55pm, arriving back in Levin by 3.50pm.

Tuesday's busload was mostly full of pensioners travelling free using their SuperGold Card.

Levin resident Bryce Nairn, 93, said he was there to support the bus service which he feels is an asset to the community.

"Today I'm heading to Waikanae's Bunnings to get a special plant I've wanted for a while. It can't be bought in Levin or Palmerston North," he said.

Nairn's wife passed away five years ago and he said the bus service would be a great way to connect and make friends.

He was sitting beside Levin resident Barbara Beckett, 81, who also said the service would help her connect with friends.

"Today I'm visiting friends in Waikanae who I don't get to see often," she said.

Horizons councillor and passenger transport committee chair Rachel Keedwell was delighted that both councils had come together to see "communities connecting" through the service.

"It's really positive to see agencies working together across regions for a more cohesive approach to New Zealand's public transport network," she said.

Ms Keedwell is encouraging people to use the service to ensure its ongoing success.

A one-way fare from Levin/Manakau is $6 and from Otaki $5.50. Under 5s and SuperGold Card holders travel free.

For more call Horizons customer service team on free phone 0508 800 800.