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• Published date: 25 May 2023
• Publication title: Star, The

Kinetic Group has confirmed that Go Bus in Dunedin is projecting a return to full driver staffing over the coming weeks

Go Bus has had many of its services impacted by the nationwide post-Covid driver shortage. It has spent the last six months conducting an intense recruitment campaign aimed at both overseas and local drivers.

‘‘Through the enormous efforts of our Dunedin recruitment teams, we have recruited enough drivers to enable a return to full services over the coming weeks,’’ Kinetic New Zealand head Calum Haslop said.

‘‘We are currently on-boarding new recruits as fast as we can ... For those travelling from overseas locations, we are fully involved in ensuring their accommodation, banking, tax and transport needs are met until they have a chance to make their own arrangements.

‘‘Training of course is super important, and getting all the licences and permits sorted can take some time. Fortunately, all the authorities we work with, such as Waka Kotahi and VTNZ, are mindful of the need to get bus drivers on the road and have been very helpful,’’ Mr Haslop said.

Go Bus and its sister Kinetic company NZ Bus have recruited about 559 drivers since November — 12 of whom will be employed in Dunedin.

‘‘We are now in discussions with Otago Regional Council on dates for the return of full timetables,’’ Mr Haslop said.

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