Rolleston express bus service could be cut as fuel prices surge

Monday, 6 April 2026

Queues of people waiting to get on a bus to Rolleston at the central Christchurch bus station. The fuel crisis means services could now be affected.

Rising fuel prices have cast doubt over the future of the express bus service between Rolleston and Christchurch.

Two routes, the 84 Rolleston Direct West and 85 Rolleston Direct East, were introduced in September as a six-month trial, after Bentley Coachlines partnered with Environment Canterbury (ECan) to expand services for the growing Selwyn community.

However, increasing diesel costs are now raising questions about whether the privately operated service is able to continue.

Speaking at a Selwyn District Council briefing, ECan public transport general manager Stewart Gibbon said the operator was reassessing its position.

“With the current fuel situation, obviously their costs are increasing…

“In the worst case scenario, [if] they chose to stop operating because it was not viable to them, currently we don’t have the fleet and the assets to turn on metro services to the same degree.

“We would have to procure buses through our existing contracts and that will take some time, so it’s in everyone’s interest that Bentley continue to operate their services, and that is the conversation we are having with them at the moment.”

Gibbon said a review was under way and expected to be concluded by the end of the month.

Bentley Coachlines managing director Liam Bentley confirmed the company was examining operational performance, patronage, and long-term sustainability.

“At the same time, we have been significantly impacted by recent increases in diesel pricing. As a privately operated service, we are not insulated from these cost pressures, and we have had to actively consider all options, including the potential to withdraw services at short notice if conditions become greatly unsustainable.

“While we have absorbed these costs in the very short term, the ongoing volatility creates uncertainty, and as a small business we need to remain responsive.”

Bentley said it was exploring interim solutions to keep services running while the review is completed.

Patronage has increased by about 21% across the company’s 13 daily trips in recent weeks, though Bentley said it was unclear whether that reflected higher fuel prices or seasonal demand.

“We recognise the importance of reliable public transport for Rolleston commuters, particularly during a period of rising fuel costs, and we remain committed to working constructively with all stakeholders to achieve the best possible outcome.”

An ECan survey of 246 users found generally positive feedback, with customers reporting good experiences and regular use of the service.

Gibbon reinforced they would continue to work with Bentley.

“We know these additional direct services have benefited the community, and that’s why it was important we get a better understanding of how they are being used.