A daily Taranaki bus service linking New Plymouth with towns in the south of the region is being proposed to fix a glaring gap in public transport.
Although buses go around Mt Taranaki on the coastal route, there's no regular route between New Plymouth and Hawera, via Stratford.
The Stratford District Council is proposing a two-year bus trial, travelling four times daily between New Plymouth and Hawera, stopping at various towns and villages along the way.
It cites a 2010 economic study that says the transport link is crucial for the survival of towns in southern and central Taranaki.
Council chief executive Sue Davidson says a bus service is needed to get workers, job seekers and students to and from the city.
Ms Davidson says 44% of Stratford's working population travel outside the district for work, most to New Plymouth half an hour away.
The three councils in the region have agreed to contribute to the $260,000 a year trial.
