Shuttle Service Welcome

By Rob Pooley

Mangawhai is to get an on-demand shuttle service over the peak holiday period to ease traffic congestion and facilitate simpler navigation around the district.

An initiative floated by Leabourn Passenger Service of Kaiwaka – and endorsed by the Mangawhai Business Association, Northland Regional Council and the Kaipara District Council – will see a trial shuttle service running on a daily basis for 18 days of the high season beginning on December 27 during the hours of 10am to 4pm. 

The aim is to move commuters quickly and easily from the Domain and other specified stops at the Village, to the Heads shopping area, the boat ramp, the Surf Club and return several times daily helping visitor movement to various local activities. 

The service will also be seen as an aid to safety issues during major events by alleviating traffic congestion due to limited parking, and the need for such stringent and sometimes over-zealous policing which has occurred in the past.

“Holiday congestion has been an issue in Mangawhai for some years,” says Leabourn company principal Lyndon Leabourn. “We floated a proposal to council in 2009 but it didn’t get much of a hearing so we are pleased to be able to get the service underway this summer. Although it’s definitely a trial run at this stage and may require some tweeking along the way, we are optimistic as to the outcome.”

The announcement of the trial has met with overwhelming support from the business community who seek to serve the throng of summer holidaymakers. This time of year is the make-or-break opportunity which supports the local economy for many months to come. 

Several weekend visitors have also pledged their support saying the service will be convenient and is long overdue. 

A nominal charge of $2 per adult, $1 for under 18s, under 5s free has been set, and while the timetable has yet to be verified it will be published in full in the December 20 issue of The Mangawhai Focus.