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Two preferred bus options have been revealed for Queenstown with a warning something has to be done about public transport, as more than 200,000 people are set to be in the resort town every day in less than 30 years.
The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is set to make the next step in shaping the Wakatipu Basin’s public transport options.
A multi-agency collaboration between ORC, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is developing a 30-year transport plan known as the Queenstown public transport business case.
ORC transport manager Lorraine Cheyne said because Queenstown was one of the country’s fastest growing areas, the transport system was constantly facing growth pressures.
"Queenstown’s current growth is evident with bus use hitting 85% of pre-pandemic levels, from the ongoing surge of residents and visitor numbers."
The population base per day at peak tourist times was set to almost double from current figures — up to 204,000 people were estimated in 2051, made up of 78,000 residents and 126,000 tourists.
QLDC transport strategy manager and Way to Go programme manager Tony Pickard said public transport was a hot topic around the basin.
There were two preferred bus networks, ferry and on-demand options as part of the case.
It would support a functional network, access to workplaces and social destinations, and reduced carbon emissions.
Option one focuses on minimal transfers, similar to the current network where many journeys can be accomplished without having to transfer.
It has three routes working together to provide frequent service in Frankton Rd (State Highway6A) between central Queenstown and the Frankton bus hub.
Option two is centred around a "town centre to Jacks Point" approach with connections to other routes at the Frankton bus hub.
The business case proposes to retain the existing ferry service between Steamer Wharf, Frankton Marina, Bayview and the Hilton Queenstown, but the frequency and span of services could be improved in the future.
Community feedback is being sought and more information will be released next year. An online survey will be available from Monday.
Consultation
• Frankton bus hub, Sept 21, 10am-2.30pm
• Stanley St bus hub, Sept 21, 4-6pm
• Arrowtown Community Centre, Sept 23, 10am-2pm
• Queenstown market, Steamer Wharf, Sept 24, 9am-2pm
