A new bus depot will be built in Happy Valley, Wellington, with capacity for up to 80 buses, as part of a strategic move by Greater Wellington Regional Council to secure the future of public transport across the region.
The council confirmed it has purchased a one-hectare site in Happy Valley, with plans to open the facility by mid-2028. This forms part of its Public Transport Asset Control Strategy, which was endorsed by 86% of respondents during consultation for the 2024–34 Long Term Plan.
Transport Committee chair Thomas Nash said council control of depots would help lower barriers for new operators and enhance competition in the public transport sector. “Value for money for residents and public transport users through open and fair competition is a key plank of our strategy, which also aims to improve the passenger experience as we transition to a zero emissions fleet,” Nash said.
Greater Wellington chair Daran Ponter noted the strategic location of the depot, which sits near the start of several routes including the high-frequency route 1. “We need the right infrastructure in the right places,” Ponter said. “This depot will support expansion and electrification of north-to-south services.”
While the depot will initially house diesel buses, electric charging infrastructure will be added as energy connections are upgraded. Deputy Transport Committee chair Simon Woolf described the purchase as “sensible future proofing,” enabling better service for growing northern communities.
Councillor Yadana Saw, who represents South Wellington and is a regular bus user, emphasised the council’s commitment to community and environmental stewardship. “This is a win for transport, the environment and our community for the long term,” she said, adding that existing site tenants will be supported during relocation and environmental safeguards will be in place to protect nearby Ōwhiro Stream.
Metlink is also exploring options for an additional depot north of Wellington and is set to begin development of another site near the airport to serve east-to-west routes, including the popular route 2.