Auckland’s Howick & Eastern Buses has received a $12 million investment in 15 new double deck buses from it’s parent company Souter Holdings.
The new Howick & Eastern commuter double deck buses are a similar style to those operated by sister company ManaBus.com with onboard Wi-Fi, power points, and USB ports but not tables.
The new commuter buses are expected to be in service in the last quarter of 2015.
General manager Sheryll Otway says the double deck buses will set a new standard for Auckland public bus transport.
“We think that passengers will appreciate the new features such as free Wi-Fi and power points and usb ports at every seat.
“To be able to charge a smart phone and stay connected while travelling will make the journey more enjoyable.”
The buses will be used predominantly on east Auckland commuter routes between Botany and downtown Auckland.
Sir Brian Souter says the new buses will be among the most efficient on Auckland’s roads.
“These double decks buses are shorter than a regular Howick & Eastern commuter bus, yet can carry nearly twice the number of passengers. That means fewer buses on the roads, and reduced carbon emissions per passenger.
“All but two of the 15 buses will be built in Tauranga by Kiwi Bus Builders and Alexander Dennis, who are leaders in high-spec coach builds,” he says.
