Call it the little shuttle that could – Motueka’s vital community transport service has just secured major support from the local Lions Club.
Motueka Lions have pledged $2000 a year for the next five years to ensure the Hato Hone St John’s Waka Ora Health Shuttle can continue its valuable work across the district.
In the year to 30 September 2025, the koha-based shuttle has transported 90 clients on 1333 individual trips. These appointments include Jack Inglis Hospital, medical centres, pharmacies, optometrists, dentists, blood testing labs, podiatrists, and wellbeing sessions such as Senior Net’s Singing for Lungs and The Shed Day Activity Service.
The service relies on donations, local fundraising and grants. Fred Wassell, Hato Hone St John area committee member and team leader of the region’s Waka Ora Health Shuttle team, says the organisation is “incredibly grateful” for the support.
“This commitment will allow the Waka Ora Health Shuttle to continue playing a vital role in supporting independent living, improving health outcomes, and providing reassurance for people without transport options or lacking the confidence to travel alone.”
Operated by a dedicated team of 11 trained volunteers, the service supports people of all ages from communities as far-reaching as Kaiteriteri, Upper Moutere, Ngātimoti, Tasman, and Māpua. It can be booked by calling the local contact centre on 0800 103 046.
“Mobility is a bit of an issue with us older Lions, and we felt that this was the perfect vessel for our support,” says Motueka Lions president Mike Brown. He says the service was mentioned by a member who had needed to use it, and the idea grew from there. A presentation by local Hato Hone St John staff sealed the deal.
Mike hopes the standing donation will give the organisation some stability, “just knowing it’s there”.
Motueka Lions replenishes its coffers by running the Kaiteriteri mini-golf through summer, as well as selling kindling and fertiliser. The club’s new potatoes and Christmas cakes will also be for sale in a few short weeks.
