Latest news with #KineticNewZealand
Scoop
a day ago
- Automotive
- Scoop
Tauranga Bus Driver Receives National Honour
Press Release – Kinetic New Zealand From regional roads to national recognition: Tauranga bus driver, Preston Chen, has received the Urban Driver of the Quarter Award from employer Kinetic New Zealand. Preston Chen spends a large portion of his week helping to keep Tauranga moving, both behind the wheel of a bus, and through the work he does behind the scenes to help improve efficiency for fellow bus drivers in Tauranga. Since beginning his journey with Kinetic New Zealand, the company behind Baybus services in 2020, Chen has used his expertise and experience from a previous career in IT to develop a number of innovative tools that have streamlined processes across the depot. Along with 3D printing an advanced cash box, Chen developed two apps, one that allows drivers to easily share their roster with loved ones, and another that makes it possible to view real-time feedback from their routes based on General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data. Chen's dedication to creating a better working environment was recognised during Kinetic Tauranga's recent Rewards and Recognition ceremony, where he received Kinetic New Zealand's Urban Driver of the Quarter Award. Kinetic's General Manager Operations – Central North Island, Ranga Perumbuli Arachchige, said the awards are an opportunity to recognise team members who have gone above and beyond in their role whilst embodying the company's core values of passion, respect, integrity, humility and authenticity. 'People are at the heart of our business. Our drivers interact with hundreds of people across the Bay of Plenty every day, and together with our office-based and workshop teams, keep our region moving. 'Rewards and Recognition is a way for us to acknowledge and celebrate the individuals who have taken extra steps to ensure our customers have the best possible experience navigating our services. 'It was an honour to announce Preston as the Urban Driver of the Quarter and recognise the outstanding efforts of our team with the presentation of numerous regional awards.' The Driver of the Quarter Award is determined by Kinetic New Zealand's Urban Senior Leadership Team following a nomination period where general managers across the country are invited to put forward outstanding members of their teams. To be eligible, drivers must have a clean driving record, receive consistently positive feedback, and demonstrate behaviour that goes over and above the expectations of their job. Regional award winners are nominated by Kinetic Tauranga's leadership team and celebrated across several categories including Rising Star, Sprit of Service, and Unsung Hero, with awards for both the first and second quarter of 2025 presented. The quarterly Rewards and Recognition awards are proudly supported by Bay of Plenty Regional Council and are part of Kinetic's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and rewarding workplace culture. Earlier this year, the organisation was recognised with an HRD 5-star Employer of Choice award from Human Resources Director, an international forum for Human Resources specialists. Full list of award recipients Rising Star Selene Larae & Hikitia Gallagher Over and Above Darwin Laid & Arun Matthews Spirit of Service Colin Graham & Linda Rorvik Inspiration Colleague Ryan Huang & Lorelle Bell Unsung Hero Ramandeep Kaur & the Health & Safety Committee About Kinetic in New Zealand Kinetic New Zealand is the largest bus operator in the country and proudly the largest operator of zero-emission buses in the region, with over 320 electric buses and 13 electrified depots. It employs over 4,500 people across its Kinetic Urban, Go Bus, Johnston's, and SkyBus brands. Kinetic New Zealand is a trusted transport partner for local councils and is the largest provider of school transport services for the Ministry of Education. The company also delivers premium charter and tourism services nationwide. In 2025, Kinetic New Zealand was named an HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice, recognising its strong people-first culture and commitment to creating an exceptional place to work. About Kinetic Kinetic is the largest bus operator in Australasia and a leading multi-modal mass transit operator globally through its subsidiary Go-Ahead. Kinetic's network includes 12,000 buses, 36,000 people and 200 depots. Kinetic proudly operates 1,200 zero-emission buses (ZEB) across 33 ZEB depots worldwide and is the leading ZEB operator in Australasia and the UK. Kinetic's mission is to enhance the communities in which it operates, and this is achieved through delivering on its sustainability priorities.
Scoop
a day ago
- Automotive
- Scoop
Tauranga Bus Driver Receives National Honour
Preston Chen spends a large portion of his week helping to keep Tauranga moving, both behind the wheel of a bus, and through the work he does behind the scenes to help improve efficiency for fellow bus drivers in Tauranga. Since beginning his journey with Kinetic New Zealand, the company behind Baybus services in 2020, Chen has used his expertise and experience from a previous career in IT to develop a number of innovative tools that have streamlined processes across the depot. Along with 3D printing an advanced cash box, Chen developed two apps, one that allows drivers to easily share their roster with loved ones, and another that makes it possible to view real-time feedback from their routes based on General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data. Chen's dedication to creating a better working environment was recognised during Kinetic Tauranga's recent Rewards and Recognition ceremony, where he received Kinetic New Zealand's Urban Driver of the Quarter Award. Kinetic's General Manager Operations – Central North Island, Ranga Perumbuli Arachchige, said the awards are an opportunity to recognise team members who have gone above and beyond in their role whilst embodying the company's core values of passion, respect, integrity, humility and authenticity. 'People are at the heart of our business. Our drivers interact with hundreds of people across the Bay of Plenty every day, and together with our office-based and workshop teams, keep our region moving. "Rewards and Recognition is a way for us to acknowledge and celebrate the individuals who have taken extra steps to ensure our customers have the best possible experience navigating our services. 'It was an honour to announce Preston as the Urban Driver of the Quarter and recognise the outstanding efforts of our team with the presentation of numerous regional awards.' The Driver of the Quarter Award is determined by Kinetic New Zealand's Urban Senior Leadership Team following a nomination period where general managers across the country are invited to put forward outstanding members of their teams. To be eligible, drivers must have a clean driving record, receive consistently positive feedback, and demonstrate behaviour that goes over and above the expectations of their job. Regional award winners are nominated by Kinetic Tauranga's leadership team and celebrated across several categories including Rising Star, Sprit of Service, and Unsung Hero, with awards for both the first and second quarter of 2025 presented. The quarterly Rewards and Recognition awards are proudly supported by Bay of Plenty Regional Council and are part of Kinetic's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and rewarding workplace culture. Earlier this year, the organisation was recognised with an HRD 5-star Employer of Choice award from Human Resources Director, an international forum for Human Resources specialists. Full list of award recipients Rising Star Selene Larae & Hikitia Gallagher Over and Above Darwin Laid & Arun Matthews Spirit of Service Colin Graham & Linda Rorvik Inspiration Colleague Ryan Huang & Lorelle Bell Unsung Hero Ramandeep Kaur & the Health & Safety Committee About Kinetic in New Zealand Kinetic New Zealand is the largest bus operator in the country and proudly the largest operator of zero-emission buses in the region, with over 320 electric buses and 13 electrified depots. It employs over 4,500 people across its Kinetic Urban, Go Bus, Johnston's, and SkyBus brands. Kinetic New Zealand is a trusted transport partner for local councils and is the largest provider of school transport services for the Ministry of Education. The company also delivers premium charter and tourism services nationwide. In 2025, Kinetic New Zealand was named an HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice, recognising its strong people-first culture and commitment to creating an exceptional place to work. About Kinetic Kinetic is the largest bus operator in Australasia and a leading multi-modal mass transit operator globally through its subsidiary Go-Ahead. Kinetic's network includes 12,000 buses, 36,000 people and 200 depots. Kinetic proudly operates 1,200 zero-emission buses (ZEB) across 33 ZEB depots worldwide and is the leading ZEB operator in Australasia and the UK. Kinetic's mission is to enhance the communities in which it operates, and this is achieved through delivering on its sustainability priorities.
Otago Daily Times
09-07-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Go Bus community fund offering $10,000 grants
Grants to support local groups are being offered by a local transport company. Bus operator Go Bus, a subsidiary of Kinetic, is offering grants of up to $10,000 plus in-kind support to non-profits, sporting clubs and organisations making a difference in Otago communities. Its Moving Communities Fund aims to help local organisations that are making a difference by supporting wellbeing and uplifting communities. In a statement, Go Bus chief operating officer Ben Barlow said the fund supported organisations that championed youth and disadvantaged groups, promoted equity, diversity and inclusion, addressed pressing local needs through non-political, community-based solutions and aligned with Kinetic's dedication to social and environmental sustainability. "Our drivers and depot teams are out in Otago every day, so they get to see up close the incredible efforts of local community groups," Mr Barlow said. "The Moving Communities Fund allows us to support these grassroots efforts to grow their impact and keep making a difference." Since launching in Kinetic's Australian operations last year, the fund had supported 40 grassroots projects, enabling practical solutions and uplifting communities often overlooked in traditional funding cycles. Kinetic New Zealand managing director Calum Haslop said the programme reflected Kinetic's ongoing commitment to making a meaningful difference across the country. "We're proud of the great relationships we've built with partners across New Zealand and launching the Moving Communities Fund here feels like a natural next step in making an even bigger, more meaningful impact. "Through the fund, we're committed to supporting frontline solutions to real challenges at the grassroots level, particularly in the regions we operate. "Whether it is $1000 to help a regional rugby team get to their next competition or larger support for a youth programme facing tough times, we want to continue supporting those who uplift their communities every day." Applications are open at and close on July 31. Successful recipients will be announced in September. — APL
Scoop
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scoop
Driving Change: Meet The Women Keeping Hamilton Moving
Aotearoa's largest bus operator, Kinetic, continues to shift gears on the gender imbalance in the transportation sector by getting more women behind the wheel — and in the driver's seat of change. Before the end of the month, the latest cohort of Kinetic's Women Up Front – Trainee Bus Driver program will be taking their new skills to the roads of Hamilton, keeping the city moving across a variety of major urban bus routes. Designed specifically to support and empower women entering the bus driving profession, Women Up Front is not only helping to future-proof the workforce — it's also driving greater diversity, inclusion, and resilience across the transport sector. The latest cohort of trainee drivers comes from a diverse range of backgrounds, but all share previous customer services experience. A key skill for their new role where strong interpersonal skills and a helpful attitude are the hallmark of a great bus driver. Donnell Shaw is looking forward to a new career in the transport industry. 'I was looking for a new challenge when I saw the Women Up Front advert on Trade Me and thought it might be an exciting career change to make. 'The training has been insightful, we've obviously done a lot of driving, but also learnt de-escalation techniques and brushed up on customer service. The trainers themselves are awesome and it's a very friendly atmosphere to walk into each morning. 'I'm really looking forward to what the future holds, and I hope to see more women joining the industry because I know they've got what it takes. If I can do it, so can you!' Hamilton Operations Manager Kellie Martin, who spent her first four years with Kinetic as an urban bus driver believes representation is the key to recruiting more women into the industry. 'The transport sector is heavily dominated by men which may be one of the reasons women are less likely to consider a career as a bus driver. As we begin to see more female bus drivers on our roads, the likelihood other women will consider the career for themselves continues to grow. 'It can be a bit daunting getting behind the wheel for the first time, but you can see the trainee's confidence start to build as we progress through the program, and it only continues to grow as they transition from trainee to fully qualified bus driver.' As New Zealand moves toward a more connected and sustainable future, public transport will play a crucial role in keeping our communities moving. Women Up Front provides a comprehensive, fully paid, four-week training program, that enables recruits to upgrade from a full car license to a Class 2 (medium vehicle) with passenger endorsement. Recruits are offered on-going mentoring and support to help them excel in their new role. With the addition of the latest cohort of women drivers, the program is continuing to boost female driver representation, driving Kinetic New Zealand closer to its goal of 40% women drivers by 2030. About Kinetic in New Zealand Kinetic New Zealand is the largest bus operator in the country and proudly the largest operator of zero-emission buses in the region, with over 320 electric buses and 13 electrified depots. It employs over 4,500 people across its Kinetic Urban, Go Bus, Johnston's, and SkyBus brands. Kinetic New Zealand is a trusted transport partner for local councils and is the largest provider of school transport services for the Ministry of Education. The company also delivers premium charter and tourism services nationwide. In 2025, Kinetic New Zealand was named an HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice, recognising its strong people-first culture and commitment to creating an exceptional place to work. For more information visit About Kinetic Kinetic is the largest bus operator in Australasia and a leading multi-modal mass transit operator globally through its subsidiary Go-Ahead. Kinetic's network includes 12,000 buses, 36,000 people and 200 depots. Kinetic proudly operates 1,200 zero-emission buses (ZEB) across 33 ZEB depots worldwide and is the leading ZEB operator in Australasia and the UK. Kinetic's mission is to enhance the communities in which it operates, and this is achieved through delivering on its sustainability priorities.
Otago Daily Times
27-04-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Bus company named employer of choice
An Otago bus company is the first public transport operator in New Zealand to win a reputable human resources award. Kinetic New Zealand, which delivers the Go Bus services in the Otago region, has been named a 2025 HRD Magazine 5-Star Employer of Choice Gold Award winner. The HRD Awards recognise New Zealand organisations that go above and beyond to create exceptional employee experiences in a competitive market. Kinetic is New Zealand's largest passenger transport operator, with about 300 employees based in the Otago region, and more than 4500 nationwide. The award reflects the company's strong commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive and rewarding workplace within every community it serves. Kinetic New Zealand managing director Calum Haslop said it may sound "cliched", but the award genuinely belonged to everyone in the company. "We're incredibly proud to be recognised as an HRD Employer of Choice — a first for Kinetic New Zealand, and a testament to our people-first philosophy. "By building a ... workplace where everyone can thrive, we believe we're setting ourselves up for success. "From fostering a diverse workforce to offering industry-leading wages, reward and recognition programmes, and long-service awards, we invest in our people every day." He said a highlight of the past year had been the launch of the Women Up Front programme, which had already welcomed 100 new female drivers across New Zealand. "It's driving us closer to our goal of 40% female drivers by 2030. "Redressing the gender imbalance in our workforce is key to building a more sustainable commercial business long-term." As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Kinetic New Zealand was addressing barriers to employment in the transport industry. Kinetic people, culture and safety director Nicky Harrison said their research showed the key limitation to recruiting female drivers was simple — it was often not considered at all. "Our Trainee Bus Driver Women Up Front programme is all about changing that. "Our commitment to inclusion isn't one dimensional. We're also making strides in LGBTQI+ inclusion and allyship, ensuring that Kinetic New Zealand continues to be a place where everyone feels valued and supported." HRD special reports managing editor Chris Sweeney said the award was testament to the professionalism and commitment Kinetic New Zealand brought to the industry, and additionally showcased its desire to maintain first-rate standards.
