The Auckland Bus Strike, led by NZ Bus, is going to be problematic for Auckland public transport users like myself.  I’ve long supported Auckland’s bus network as a passenger, as I believe it offers a real alternative to having thousands of cars on our roads.  That means that I’ve got into a routine of catching buses in Auckland, to and from work, and often to other places I need to visit.

Traditionally I’ve used passenger services like Uber, Zoomy, and Ola as necessary top-ups, when I’ve needed to go somewhere late at night (like an Auckland Christmas party) or to a place that’s a bit off the bus route / normal beaten track.  But right now I’m having to use Uber to get to and from my office each day.  I’m lucky that my local bus service is provided by Ritchies and not NZ Bus as I can get from home in West Auckland to the city – but then it’s a long walk to the office.  The CBD is the CBD but it’s also a wide reaching area, and a long walk in Auckland’s current heatwave.

If you’re not already a member of Uber, Ola, or Zoomy, you should use the links available around these pages to get free rides on each service.  They’re free to try, and a free ride is so much better than a 20 minute walk in the heat!  The Auckland Bus Strike could go for days, or weeks, and it may go as long as Christmas according to the NZ Herald articles – so prepare now for your transport needs.  An Uber or Zoomy is so much cheaper than alternative taxi services (as long as they’re not on big surge pricing windows).  Taxis are dearer than buses – but at this time, what’s the choice?

Join and get your free rides now.  At least they will give you some price relief during this bus strike.  They don’t call this the “silly season” for nothing.  Hopefully the buses will be back again soon!