Launching 4 November!
Rural Bus Manawatū is an on-demand service connecting Manawatū’s rural communities to Feilding.
Watch this space for updates and information. If you have questions, please email us.
Charities registration number CC62394.
Seeking volunteers
We’re seeking a volunteer treasurer and secretary. These roles can be undertaken by two people, or by one person if you’re interested in both!
Role description – secretary & treasurer
Email info@ruralbusmanawatu.org.nz to express your interest.
Our pricing
Zone 1: $10 return – for addresses approx. 10km from Feilding
Zone 2: $25 return – for addresses approx. 11-30km from Feilding
Zone 3: $30 return – for addresses approx. 31km+ from Feilding
We are a return-service and fares are priced to be as affordable as possible. If you only need transport one-way for some reason, your fare will be the same. This is to cover our administrative costs and the effective empty seat that we will be unable to provide to another customer.
Please note: we are yet to determine the exact boundaries of our zones. We will publish this in the coming weeks.
Our journey so far
Apiti residents recognise a need for a rural transport solution to support elderly to access healthcare and other needs; undertake initial research
Presentation of research findings to Manawatu District Council
Steering committee established to lead project further, led by Neighbourhood Support Manawatu
Market research undertaken to quantify need and use cases
Research findings and service proposal published
Recommendation made to Horizons’ Passenger Transport Committee to bring forward initiation date for rural transport in Manawatu district, through their Regional Public Transport Plan
Horizons’ Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32 published; services for Manawatu to be initiated 2023 and given high priority
Work begins to establish service
$99,000 raised in grant funding, including $22,000 from Manawatu District Council
Van procurement – delayed due to global manufacturing / supply chain issues.
Van arrived in New Zealand!
Rural Bus Manawatu registered as a charitable trust.
Operational funding confirmed. Van delivered!