Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor Doug Owens is hoping Tauranga residents will participate in World Car Free Day on Thursday and ride the Bay Hopper to work.

Doug says people should make the most of this international day and go ‘car free'.

Councillor Doug Owens.

'This is a great opportunity to encourage those people who have not tried our bus service to give it a go,” says Doug.

'I think people would be pleasantly surprised with how easy and convenient it is to take the bus.”

He said the region's Bay Hopper and City Ride buses are modern and environmentally-friendly with air-conditioning and some have the ability to ‘kneel' to the pavement for wheelchair and pushchair access.

'Taking the bus is not only good for the environment it also takes a lot of hassle out of your day as there's no need to pay for a park, and plenty of time to text your friends and have a read of the morning paper.

'There are also many bus routes that people may not be aware of – for example, the Ohope-Whakatane route is an easy way for people to get to and from the beach.

'I encourage people to check out the bus routes, and see what is available.”

Since the first World Car Free Day was celebrated in 2000, the event has grown to involve participants in more than 1000 cities in 40 countries.

The Bay bus service covers all major towns and suburbs in the Bay of Plenty including Opotiki, Whakatane, Kawerau, Murupara, Rotorua, Te Puke, Tauranga, and Katikati.

'Whether you choose to take the bus or jump on your bike this Thursday, make sure you take part and consider the benefits of using alternative modes of transport in your everyday routine.”