Seniors urged to give bus a go

A new programme has been launched to support and encourage seniors to use public transport across the region.

“The eBus is something that I think should be more accessible for older people – our population’s growing so much, and not everyone is able to drive,” says Jackie MacIntyre, a community support coordinator with Age Concern Nelson Tasman.

The organisation is hosting a series of drop-in information sessions as part of its All On Board programme over the next couple of months so people can learn more about the eBus service.

Information will include how to read a timetable, something Jackie says can be “a little bit daunting”, how to pay, and how the bus accommodates walkers and wheelchairs.

There will also be several semi-guided bus journeys alongside volunteer ‘bus buddies’ so seniors can give the service a go without the stress of having to figure it out themselves the first time.

“I was a bit nervous of using the buses,” admits Stoke resident Denise Gridley, “but once I used it for the first time, it was great.”

She currently uses the bus once a week to take a trip into Nelson to socialise and run errands but will making the trip more often once she moves.

“It’ll be at my gate; I’ll be hopping on and off it more regularly,” Denise says.
She tends to take the route via Tāhunanui into the city and enjoys the views of the waterfront which she doesn’t see as much when she drives herself.

Denise Milne also catches the bus from Stoke into Nelson and Richmond several times a week to meet with friends or do shopping.

Catching the bus takes away the hassle of dealing with traffic or parking,” she says.

“I just find it much more relaxing going on the bus.”

Denise adds that the drivers are “really helpful” and so people shouldn’t be apprehensive about using the service. The guided journeys and information sessions were being run with support from the Nelson City and Tasman District Councils.

Alec Louverdis, the group manager infrastructure with the Nelson council, says the councils aim to ensure the eBus was accessible, reliable, and affordable for all residents, including seniors.

“Public transport plays a vital role in promoting independence, reducing social isolation, and enabling older people to access essential services, participate in community activities, and enjoy what Nelson has to offer.”

A full list of the drop-in sessions can be found here.