Nelson Tasman embraces greener future with 17 electric buses

Credit: Nelson City Council

Nelson City Council has announced that Nelson Tasman is embracing a greener future with the recent arrival of 17 electric buses, replacing a significant portion of the diesel powered fleet currently in use. The new buses have found their home at SBL on Estuary Place in Richmond, where the site has been prepared with ample charging infrastructure to support the entire fleet, ensuring they can be charged overnight.

The journey of these electric vehicles began when they had arrived in Port Auckland and had been promptly certified for use in New Zealand. 

“I strongly believe the future is electric,” said Nelson Mayor Nick Smith. “I’m proud that Nelson is leading in the uptake of electric cars and now with electric buses. The benefits are reducing greenhouse gas emissions by about 1600 tonnes per year, but also providing a clean, modern and convenient bus service for the people of Nelson Tasman.”

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To further enhance the new service, the next step involves installing Bee Card readers, Wi-Fi, bike racks and the signature livery. The electrified fleet is set to commence operations on 1 August 2023, with routes between Nelson and Richmond running every half hour from 07:00 to 19:00, seven days a week. In addition, new destinations such as Wakefield, Motueka and the airport will be serviced by these eco-friendly buses.

“For Tasman this means connecting the region. Because we’ve increased the number of buses on the road we can have a bus going to and from Motueka four times a day and Wakefield six times a day,” said Tasman Acting Mayor Stu Bryant. “Ultimately, we’re creating a service that focuses on improving the frequency and coverage of the bus service.”

Before the official launch, the electric buses will undergo testing on some existing routes, giving passengers a sneak peek into the sustainable future of public transportation. As the electric buses quietly glide through the streets of Nelson Tasman, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a cleaner, greener and more sustainable commute as they step aboard the next bus journey.