The Transport Agency, along with Auckland Transport and regional councils, invests in public transport services and infrastructure across New Zealand. Improving the quality of urban buses for public transport users, as well as minimising their emissions impact on the environment, has been the focus of collaborative work between the Transport Agency, Regional Councils, Bus and Coach Association, bus operators, bus builders and suppliers.
All new buses entering urban service for the first time are required to have Euro 5 compliant engines. In addition, the emissions standard for the existing fleet has been raised with Euro 3 being the minimum for existing buses used in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. The purpose is to reduce pollution from buses operating in areas of high employment and population densities such as city centres. Minimum Euro 3 buses also offer improved accessibility and safety. This requirement will be implemented as new bus contracts are rolled out.
An age restriction on buses, combined with longer-term contracts, means that the quality of those operating in provincial areas will also continue to improve.
