Riding with Connect

With petrol prices rising, there has never been a better time to catch the bus. Depending on where you live, you could save hundreds of dollars every month by switching your commute to the bus. You can find a full price breakdown here. 

There's a few things to know before catching one of our buses. This webpage has everything you need to get moving with Connect.

How to plan your journey

Our bus routes, schedules and stops are also loaded into Google Maps and Apple Maps. Just be sure to select the 'public transport' option when planning your journey. 

Timetables

How to pay for your ride

• on the bus (cash only - pay $10 and get a card loaded with $5 credit)
• online at beecard.co.nz
• in person at either the Palmerston North or Whanganui iSite
• at Horizons Regional Council's Palmerston North and Whanganui offices.

Register your Bee Card

1. Visit beecard.co.nz.
2. Create an account.
3. Select 'Register Card to Account' by clicking the button on the right side.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen.

How to catch a bus

At the stop:

1. Find your closest stop by using the Transit App, Google Maps, Apple Maps, or a timetable. Be sure you know which bus you have to catch - the number of the route is a good way to remember.
2. Be at your bus stop 5 minutes before your bus is scheduled to arrive. 
3. When the bus is approaching, check the route number and destination displayed on the front of the bus.
4. If it is your bus, give the driver a friendly wave to signal the bus to stop and collect you. This is important, as some stops will have different bus routes go past and drivers need to know if they need to collect you or if you're waiting for a different route.
5. Have your fare ready. Either tap your Bee Card on the reader (usually to the right as you get on) or pay the driver.

On your ride:

• Take a seat or hold onto the railings if there are no easily accessible seats. If standing, stand clear of the doors.
• Please offer your seat to someone who may need it more than you. Elderly passsengers, pregnant and disabled people, and families would appreciate the ability to sit down.
• Be courteous of others by holding your bags, putting them at your feet/on your lap, or storing them in the luggage areas.
• Buses may stop at scheduled stops for a few minutes if they're running ahead of schedule. This is to make sure people don't miss the bus if it's running early.
• Keep an eye on where you're going so you know when you're getting close to the stop where you want to get off. The Transit app is helpful for this, as the Transit GO function will give you an alert when you're getting close to your stop. 

Hopping off:

1. As you get near to your stop, press the stop button. Be sure to look and see the 'Bus Stopping' sign is lit. If it isn't, press the stop button again or try pressing a different button.
2. Stay seated (or, if you're standing, keep holding a handle) until the bus stops. Take this time to make sure you have all of your belongings. 
3. Once the bus stops and you have your belongings, head towards the nearest exit. Tag off if you're using your Bee Card.

Onboard accessibility

•  All buses can be lowered when you board or depart if the stop is too high - just ask the driver.
• All Connect buses are wheelchair accessible via the front door. Mobility aids (wheelchairs, prams, etc) and disability assistance dogs are welcome on the bus.
• Carers ride for free if you need assistance getting on and off the bus.

Need more help?

• 11-15 Victoria Ave, Palmerston North
• 181 Guyton St, Whanganui