We saw a huge increase in patronage across the Whanganui network in the 2023/24 financial year, with over 190,000 passenger trips, 70,000 more than in 2022/23. The main driver of this increase was the introduction of the high-frequency Te Ngaru The Tide service, which now accounts for half of all patronage across the network.
Getting around Whanganui should be easy, convenient, and work for everyone, so we've looked at how we can make more improvements to better connect the community and support the city's growth. Earlier in 2025 we consulted with the Whanganui community on improved bus network designs. The feedback helped us to settle on an improved design that:
Reflects our community’s current and future needs; and
Strikes a balance between affordability and supporting the city’s future growth.
The key features of the new network include:
Two routes operating every 20 minutes
Three routes operating every hour
Service to some areas not currently covered, including Pūtiki and further into Aramoho and Castlecliff
Buses run seven days a week
Friday evening services on high frequency routes
Would replace existing school routes because of increased connectivity across the city (see below for more info)
52% of Whanganui residents within 400m of a route running every 20 minutes
72% of Whanganui residents within 400m of a route running at least hourly
As we approach the implementation date (expected to be in April 2026), we'll be rolling out a public awareness campaign to help the community understand the changes and what they mean for their journeys. A key aspect of implementation will be laying the groundwork to ensure as smooth a transition as possible for our current users, and clear information for new users.
Read more about the consultation
You can view the current Whanganui Urban timetable here. View an interactive map of the Whanganui Urban bus network below.
Bee Cards are available from:
Cards can also be topped up at all those locations and platforms.
Click here for more information about the Bee Card.
Connect is now providing the Transit app for residents within the Horizons Region. The Transit app makes it easier to plan your journey, track where your bus is, and even use GO, the additional feature that helps you along your journey. Download the Transit app free from the App Store or Google Play for your phone Click here more information on how to use the Transit app.