Exciting plans are under way to redevelop the civic precinct in the centre of our city - Te Manawataki O Te Papa. The demolition of the old council building in Willow Street has meant the bus interchange has moved up the road to Durham and Wharf Streets (between Spring Street and the Baycourt Community and Arts Centre).
Read more about our civic redevelopment projects
This is a temporary solution while a new permanent transportation hub is developed.
The Intercity bus stop has moved from Wharf Street to Willow Street, outside the Tauranga Art Gallery.
The new interchange opened on Monday, 13 June 2022 and is expected to be in use at this temporary location for approximately 18 months.
Several sites across the city were assessed for suitability as a temporary location for the bus interchange. The Durham Street site was chosen because it is close to the current site on Willow Street and destination points in the city centre, and minimises impacts on the existing bus network and passengers.
Safety and accessibility
Safety and accessibility are important considerations in the location of any public transport facility. Improved lighting and CCTV cameras have been installed on Durham Street and security guards will enhance safety for all users.
Improvements to footpaths in Durham Street have been made to help make getting on and off the buses safer for the community. Most buses can also be lowered on request and the driver can lay out a ramp so it’s easier to get on and off the bus. There will also be an upgrade of footpaths on Spring and Wharf Streets on the approach from Willow Street to Durham Street and seating added.
Two new raised zebra crossings have also been added either side of the Wharf Street/Durham Street intersection to assist with crossing the road near the interchange. Tactile indicators (raised bumps) are included to assist people with impaired vision.
The lift in the Spring Street parking building is another option to assist people with access needs to get from Grey Street to Durham Street.
Bus shelters, seating, rubbish bins, bike stands and information on bus routes and timetables will all be available on site.
Temporary bus interchange location – Durham and Wharf Streets
Bus timetables and routes
There are no planned changes to bus timetables and routes. Stay up to date at Baybus or call 0800 4 BAYBUS for more information.