Electric AirportLink fleet launched

South Auckland’s first fully electric bus service has been introduced by Auckland Transport (AT), with Auckland Airport and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

This marks the second electric fleet launch for the Auckland region – following the Waiheke e-bus launch late last year.

 The new AirportLink service from January 24 will provide key transport connections between Manukau and Auckland Airport, via Papatoetoe.

When the Puhinui Station Interchange opens in June, the service will travel along a more direct route along bus priority lanes.

The project is an early improvement from the Southwest Gateway Programme, which will provide safer and more reliable travel choices to move around south and east Auckland, AT says.

Operated by Go Bus, the nine buses for the new AirportLink service have been built by Yutong, with supply and support from JW Group.

“As well as making it faster and more convenient to travel to the airport and its employment precinct, once the new Puhinui Station Interchange opens in June, the new fully electric AirportLink fleet will help reduce carbon emissions from Auckland’s transport network – contributing towards achieving our climate change goals,” Auckland mayor Phil Goff says.

“Transport accounts for more than 40% of Auckland’s carbon emissions, so it’s important that we provide emissions-free options as part of our commitment to respond to climate change.”

AT board of directors chair Adrienne Young-Cooper says AT’s recent trials prove the new electric buses can operate for a full shift on a single charge, while providing an improved customer experience.

“AT’s commitment to not procuring diesel buses from 2025 is complemented by our Low Emission Bus Roadmap. This commits to transitioning the entire public transport bus fleet from diesel to low emission (electric and hydrogen) by 2040.”

Auckland Airport chief executive Adrian Littlewood says the launch of the new electric bus service is an important development alongside the airport’s continuing work on transport projects.

“These public-transport improvements help strengthen links to our communities and make better journeys for travellers and workers accessing the airport.”

A new 38 bus service will operate to connect passengers between Auckland Airport and Onehunga and Mangere Bridge.

The 38 and AirportLink will replace the Airporter 380, which will be no longer be in service from January 24.

Visit www.at.govt.nz/AtoB for more information.