17 Comments

Great reflections! I drove for the ARA in the 1970s. Traffic was bad then and the response always seemed to be more traffic lights! Didn’t adjust the timetables though.

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Thank you driver! Hopefully see you on the #22 route sometime :)

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Hi Rebecca, I'll be driving the 22 next year. It's turning into the 12 I think, going all the way from Strathmore to Mairangi and return. Over an hour each way. Have a great summer!

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Meri Kirihimete to you and your whanau Alan. I watch out for you on #2 and #18 - do you ever drive these routes? Love your musings.

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I am doing two #18 trips while on the holiday timetable, both in the afternoon, one to Miramar and then return, finishing around 6.40pm. #2 I only do in the weekends if I'm rostered on. Please say hello if you see me. I appreciate your subscription. Have a wonderful summer break.

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

A wonderful reflection, thank you!

And Meri Kirihimete. I hope you have a lovely Christmas and a nice break.

PS I so want to know the story behind the bag of sparkly g-strings

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So do I Gene. Meri Kirihimete to you and yours too.

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Intercity is owned jointly by Tranzit, and SBL Group who owns Nelson buses.

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Lovely entry as always, Alan. Your musings are both entertaining and eye-opening! Thanks for everything you do. I look forward to reading more of your tales in the new year 🤍✨ 🚌 happiest of holidays!

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Meri kirihimete Alan. I always thank the driver!!

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

It's sad how soon once 'Essential' just become 'Workers' again and I fear it's only going to get worse. Thanks for your service, and your wonderful words.

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I appreciate your comment Robin. Have a good summer.

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Great read Al. I agree, certainty=routine, so little variations (weather, emergencies, funny people, traffic jams) create huge interest.

Out of the blue I’ve been asked to train for Intercity driving, so I’m going down to Haast via overnight stay in company house in Fox Glacier tomorrow, returning to Nelson Friday evening. Both directions via Punakaiki typically in Scania and MAN coaches dang blast buggar. Sounds like an enjoyable routine on the best roads in the country. Must watch out for pigeons….pop whoops.

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The mighty Scania. I drove one on Monday. It had an arm rest on the drivers seat. I thought I was in heaven. Isn't Intercity a Tranzit company? Do they also own Nelson buses?

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Fantastic Alan,

Enjoyed your stories. Have a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year

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You too Chris. And congrats on your recent achievements with Stretch!

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Dec 19, 2023Liked by Alan Doak

Thanks again Alan...love your reflections and your commitment to service.

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