A new bus service trial for Aranui has been approved, following sustained calls from residents for better public transport access.

Councillors agreed to roll out a 12 month trial aimed at improving coverage in the eastern Christchurch suburb.

The service will run hourly, connecting residents to either The Palms or Eastgate Shopping Centre.

The decision was made during Wednesday’s Canterbury Regional Council meeting, which also covered a range of governance and funding matters.

The meeting opened with public forum speakers raising local concerns and initiatives.

Yvette Couch Lewis, representing the Whaka Ora Committee, provided an update on the Whaka Ora Healthy Harbour Programme and its role in supporting the community.

Bromley resident Rebecca Robin also addressed councillors, sharing a poem reflecting ongoing frustration over the wastewater treatment plant odour affecting her neighbourhood.

Public deputations focused heavily on the proposed Aranui bus trial.

Christchurch East MP Reuben Davidson, local advocate Pam Williams, researcher Nick Stoneman, and public health academic Rosee Hodgson all spoke in support of improved transport options.

Canterbury Regional Council public transport lead Councillor Joe Davies backed the trial and urged residents to use the service.

“It’s up to all of us together to get people on the bus, so it has the chance to go beyond the first year,” Davies said.

Council members acknowledged the strength of community advocacy behind the proposal.

The trial is expected to begin in July.