Bus use is on the rise in the lower South Island, on figures from the second half of 2023

Patronage in Dunedin has risen 28-percent, and in Queenstown it shot-up 44-percent - both compared to the same time in 2022.

The new Mosgiel express bus is also boosting passenger numbers, with nearly seven-thousand trips since the 78 service launched six months ago.

Regional Councillor, Andrew Noone says it's exciting to see more people taking up public transport options.