Concerns over proposed school bus cuts
Wakatipu High School principal Oded Nathan has voiced strong concerns over plans to phase out Ministry of Education-funded school buses, warning the move could have significant consequences for students and families.
"We’ve raised several concerns with both the Otago Regional Council and the Ministry of Education,” Nathan says. "We’re pushing for a cross-sector meeting before any decisions are finalised."
He said while no final decision has been made, the Ministry is undergoing a cost-cutting review. Any changes would require formal consultation and at least 10 weeks' notice.
Nathan listed five major concerns: safety, scheduling, capacity, cost, and increased traffic congestion.
Hundreds of WHS students catch the school buses, and the change will also impact primary schools.
"Having primary kids waiting for public buses on State Highway 6, with current roadworks, is not acceptable," Nathan says.
Scheduling mismatches between public buses and school timetables are also disruptive, affecting students’ education, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities. "Sometimes buses are full and pass students by. They then miss school."
The principal added that many stops have no shelters, exposing students to harsh weather. He warned this may discourage public transport use, leading to more cars on the road.
Nathan also emphasised the financial strain. “Public transport fares would be unaffordable for some families. The current free school buses are essential.
"We need all stakeholders to understand the real-world impact these changes would have."
Wakatipu High, with over 1460 students, draws pupils from as far as Kingston, Glenorchy, and Arrowtown.
Queenstown's acting Mayor Quentin Smith says the community is disappointed at the proposed school bus cuts.
"Though still only a proposal, we’re very concerned about the impact on our tamariki and whānau," Smith says.
He noted QLDC has repeatedly pushed for involvement in these decisions, but engagement with ORC has been limited.
“No final decision has been made — we hope there’s still time for consultation,” he said.
ORC, meanwhile, has announced it will increase the frequency of Orbus services from 1 July, creating additional capacity. Specific timetable and route changes will be announced shortly.
