News

Waikato community transport providers can now apply for a share of the regional council’s $500,000 Community Transport Grant fund. This fund supports the delivery of community-led transport services for people whose travel needs are generally not met by the public transport network, particularly in rural and remote areas or where passengers have specialist accessibility or medical needs.

Eligible providers can apply online from Monday, 9 February to Sunday, 1 March. Visit Community Transport Grant Fund | Waikato Regional Council for more details and the link to apply.

18 July 2025 - A Heartfelt Example of Community Transport in Action.

We love celebrating inspiring stories of people who make a real difference in their communities. This heartwarming 1News clip features an Oamaru driver who’s been going above and beyond to help others through community transport. His dedication and compassion are a shining example of what it means to serve with heart - and echoes what we see every day through our fantastic Waikato providers.

Watch the video

26 June 2025 - The Waikato Regional Council is currently seeking public feedback on proposed changes to bus services across the region. This is a vital opportunity for our community to help shape the future of public transport in the Waikato. 

Feedback closed 11.59pm, Sunday 13 July 2025.

View the feedback

4 June 2025 - For over three decades, Te Kuiti 4H Community House Trust’s mobility van has been a lifeline for residents facing mobility challenges. Supported by Waikato Regional Council’s Community Transport Grant Fund, the service ensures access to medical care, social events, and everyday necessities.

View the article

30 April 2024 - The providers generally rely on volunteers, donations and community goodwill, which they use to provide significant benefits like access to healthcare, education and social opportunities when cost and distance prove too much.

View the article

9 April 2024 - Eighteen community transport providers across Waikato gained a share of $209,500 from the latest round of the Waikato Regional Council Community Transport Grant fund.

Read more in the media release

7 December 2023 - The club provides a lifeline for many who could not make it to important appointments. Many of Tairua's 1,500 residents don't have private transport options either, so TCFC runs a complete door-to-door service.

View the story hub

3 October 2023 - From 16 October access to Waikato Hospital will be easier for staff, patients and visitors thanks to a partnership between Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand and local councils.

Read more in the media release

6 May 2023 - Submissions opened on 6th May 2023 for Community Transport providers operating within the Waikato region to apply for up to $10,000 grants from Waikato Regional Council's fund. Applications will be accepted through 28th May.

Click here to apply

27 September 2022 - A half-day symposium bringing together those who are involved in Community Transport in New Zealand; to provide a voice and articulate a vision for the sector's future.

Read more about the symposium

September 2022 - Join Go Eco in their call for the government to commit to safe walking, biking, scooting and free buses for all students in Aotearoa.

View the petition at Go Eco

29 October 2021 - A letter from Waikato District Health Board outlining the Vacccination Mandate for service providers of the Waikato DHB.

Read the letter outlining the vaccination mandate

February 2017 - A series of upcoming neighbourhood meetings where Access and mobility workgroup will be asking all the users about how the sate highways impact their choices, opportunities, or the way they move around.

View more about the drop-in sessions

30 November 2015 - Disabled people find public transport in Wellington and Auckland, too hard to use.

Read more about this article at Stuff

15 June 2015 - Public Transport Trial for South Waikato starts 22 June 2015

Read more about this at South Waikato District Council

26 February 2015 - Warning of Grey tsunami as Waikato's population ages.

Read more about this on Stuff