Kinetic New Zealand expands South Island footprint with Golden Bay Coachlines acquisition

Kinetic-owned Go Bus Transport has expanded its South Island operations with the acquisition of Golden Bay Coachlines, a long-established and respected passenger transport operator serving communities across Golden Bay / Mohua and the wider Nelson–Tasman region. The business will now operate as Go Bus Golden Bay.

Services will continue without interruption, with the same drivers, vehicles, and depots now operating as Go Bus. By retaining the local team, the acquisition provides continuity for schools, families, and the wider community during the transition.

Golden Bay Coachlines has been part of the region for more than 40 years, currently operating 19 school bus routes on behalf of the Ministry of Education, alongside scheduled services between Tākaka and Nelson, and charter services that support both locals and visitors. Its depots in Tākaka and Murchison will remain central to ongoing operations.

Kinetic New Zealand Managing Director, Calum Haslop, says the focus is firmly on supporting people and communities.

“Golden Bay Coachlines has built a trusted operation over decades, and we’re proud to continue that legacy. For the communities we serve, this is about continuity and confidence. The same drivers, the same local knowledge, and the same commitment to safe, reliable transport remain in place, supported by the scale, expertise and long-term investment of Go Bus and Kinetic.

“At a time when many regional businesses are under pressure, it’s important that we’re supporting local jobs and providing certainty for the people who rely on these services every day. Being part of Kinetic also brings access to broader expertise and support, while keeping decision-making grounded locally. That combination allows us to support regions like Nelson–Tasman not just today, but as public transport continues to evolve.”

Michael Bickley, outgoing owner of Golden Bay Coachlines, says joining Go Bus ensures the business’s values and community focus continue.

“This business has always been about serving our communities well, and that won’t change. Becoming part of Go Bus gives our team security and new opportunities, while ensuring customers continue to receive the service they know and trust. I’m proud of what we’ve built over the past four decades, and I’m confident Go Bus and Kinetic will maintain that same commitment to the region.”

The acquisition strengthens Kinetic’s presence across the top of the South Island through its Go Bus brand, and reflects a shared commitment to reliable, locally delivered public transport. Golden Bay Coachlines will officially transition to Go Bus Golden Bay from Monday, 19 January 2026, ahead of the first school term.