On the (Regional) buses
Cambridge’s main bus service could split in two.
Instead of a single Route 20 linking Leamington, Cambridge and Hamilton, the service could branch at the town centre into two routes. A 20L bus would continue serving Leamington, while 20N would extend into northern Cambridge.
The suggested route serving the northern area of Cambridge, running between the Velodrome in the west and the town centre in the east. The proposed route is shown in green. The existing route 20 (in blue) would continue to operate to Leamington.
Waikato Regional Council planners favour this approach over creating a separate service, saying it builds on an already well-used route. The changes could be introduced by the middle of next year- at the earliest – if councillors back them.
By alternating trips between the two branches, buses would run more often along the busiest section between Cambridge and Hamilton, where most passengers travel.
For users, it would mean more frequent buses where demand is strongest, while also reaching parts of the town that have limited or no access to public transport.
Waikato regional councillor Liz Stolwyk said the proposal strikes a balance between improving access and making better use of an existing service.
“This builds on a route people already know and use but extends it so more parts of Cambridge are connected while also improving frequency where demand is highest.
“The real winner here is we get even more services,” she said.
Cambridge’s growth is part of what is driving the rethink. The town’s population is expected to climb from around 22,000 today to close to 31,000 within the next decade.
The preferred option would add about $750,000 a year to operating costs, taking the total to around $1.8 million.
There are hurdles to clear. New stops will be required.
The council has yet to consider the staff recommendations. If they are approved, the council will seek funding through the National Land Transport Programme, with the expectation that the New Zealand Transport Agency will co-fund the increased service levels.
The Cambridge single and double decker buses pass each other near the Town Clock.
