Council votes to provide free bus and rail services for Christmas Day

Passengers will be able to travel free on Christmas Day on the Wellington region’s buses and trains.  

Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Sustainable Transport Committee today approved the proposal from Chief Executive Greg Campbell for trains and buses to operate free all day on 25 December. 

East by West ferry services do not run on Christmas Day. Those travelling between Eastbourne and Wellington by bus on Christmas Day will be able to travel for free.

No Wairarapa Line train or bus services run on Christmas Day. 

Sustainable Transport Committee Chair Councillor Barbara Donaldson said she was delighted that the proposal had been unanimously approved.  

“Free Christmas Day public transport will provide an experience for some customers who normally will not travel, or cannot afford to travel,” Cr Donaldson said. 

“Christmas can be a lonely time for many and travel can be an extra cost for families. I hope that free public transport can help lessen stress for some and provide for closer community connection across our region.”

More information about Christmas and New Year services.