Future Happy Valley Bus Depot
Greater Wellington has purchased a piece of land in Landfill Road, Happy Valley for use as a bus depot from 2028.
Description
Securing this land in Happy Valley is the latest step in Metlink’s implementation of the asset control strategy, which was adopted by the Council in June 2024. Having a Metlink controlled depot in South Wellington will provide long-term resilience to the north-south bus network, and it is critical to deliver the network’s existing and intended routes and timetables.
For more information, check out the FAQ section below.
Media Release: Happy Valley land purchased for Metlink bus depot(external link)
Timeline
June 2025
- Land purchased
June 2026
- Land comes under Greater Wellington ownership
June 2028
- Bus depot becomes operational
Frequently asked questions
Why did GW buy this site?
We needed a second Metlink controlled bus depot (in addition to Kauri St depot which is being developed) to be a base for buses that service north-south routes.
When was this bought?
We purchased the site in June 2025, however we will not take over ownership until May 2026.
How big is the site?
The site is around 1 hectare.
Did Metlink look at any other sites?
Suitable land is limited to south Wellington. We considered a number of sites, but this was preferred due to its road links, being an industrial area (on the way to the tip) and away from residential properties.
When will the depot become operational?
The depot is planned to become operational in mid 2028
What will happen to all the buildings on site?
The buildings will be removed or demolished, except the Big Air building which is to remain.
How many buses will the depot eventually take?
This will depend on the number of buses we need to operate bus services to meet future demand. The site has potential to accommodate up to 80 buses.
Will this depot be fully electric?
Ultimately yes, however it will take many years for us to replace all our diesel fleet with electric buses. This site will be used to house diesel buses until they are replaced.
Why do we need another depot in South Wellington – there is already Kilbirnie, Rongotai and Greater Wellington are developing a new depot in Kauri St Miramar?
A significant proportion of the South Wellington population regularly use the Metlink bus services. We require two depots to service this demand.
What will happen to the other sites?
The Kilbirnie and Rongotai depots are privately owned. The Happy Valley and Kauri St depots are planned to replace these two depots over time.
How does this site relate to the other depots across greater Wellington?
Metlink has a network of bus depots which service differing parts of the Greater Wellington region.
Who will pay for the development of the site?
No decision had been made as to who will pay for any subsequent development. Metlink will consider all options, including third party funding.
How will this impact Owhiro Stream?
This land purchase would initially have no impact on the stream. Metlink will explore opportunities to remove or reduce any stream contamination that may be currently coming from the site as part of any future development planning.
The site was previously used for industrial purposes, is it contaminated?
This land purchase would initially have no impact on the stream. Metlink will ensure no potential contamination comes from the site as part of any future development.
What will happen to Big Air?
The Big Air gym/sport venue will stay on as a tenant to Metlink.
What about traffic along Happy Valley Rd?
Happy Valley Rd is already busy with heavy vehicles accessing the Southern Landfill. We anticipate that the impact on traffic from the depot will be minimal. Traffic analysis will be considered when depot planning commences.
How can I be kept informed of progress?
Check out www.metlink.org.nz/happyvalleydepot(external link)
Who can I contact if I have other questions?
Go to www.metlink.org.nz/happyvalleydepot (external link)and fill in feedback/questions form at the bottom of the page.