The RUB sets out the common dimensions and features of an urban bus.

This is important as a common standard for these reduces the capital and operating costs of building, purchasing and operating buses. It also provides more flexibility for public transport operators who can use buses in multiple regions without having to modify them to meet different regional vehicle quality standards.

The RUB will improve the accessibility, comfort and usability of buses used in urban services, and has widespread support from regional councils and Auckland Transport, organisations and groups representing people with impairments, public transport operators, bus builders and suppliers.

The NZTA agrees with many stakeholders that the quality of buses is important for creating a valued customer experience, attracting patronage from people who have a greater choice about whether they use public transport or not, and for accessibility reasons.

This updated version of the RUB is a valued project of the wider, public transport sector-led, work programme created to improve the effectiveness of public transport in New Zealand (the ‘Public Transport Effectiveness Action Plan’).

See Review of the Requirements for urban buses in New Zealand for further background and supporting information that was used for consultation between 21 April and 8 June 2011.

NOTE: A Microsoft Word version of this document is also available. Email us if you require the RUB in this format.