MEDIA RELEASE
29 December 2026
Metro Tasmania and the Motor Accident Insurance Board (MAIB) are making it easier for Tasmanians to celebrate safely this New Year’s Eve, with MAIB Nightrider bus services operating across Hobart, Launceston and Burnie.
Sponsored by the MAIB, the Nightrider will run as additional services from 7.00pm on Tuesday 31 December, helping customers get to and from New Year’s Eve celebrations safely.
Metro is encouraging customers to take advantage of half-price fares on all Metro services on New Year’s Eve and leave the car at home.
Customers can plan their journey using the Metro Trip Planner or online timetables, with details of the additional Nightrider services available on the Metro website.
MAIB Chief Executive Officer Paul Kingston said the Nightrider service was an important part of MAIB’s broader road safety initiatives.
“Preventing death and serious injury on Tasmania’s roads is a critical priority for the MAIB,” Mr Kingston said.
“The MAIB Nightrider service provides a safe, affordable and accessible way for people to get home after a night of celebrations, without getting behind the wheel.”
Mr Kingston encouraged people to plan ahead.
“If you’re heading out to celebrate New Year’s Eve, we strongly encourage you to leave the car at home and take advantage of the MAIB Nightrider service,” he said.
“It’s a responsible choice that helps keep you, your friends and family, and everyone else on the road safe.
“If you’re going to drink, plan ahead and leave the driving to someone else.”
The New Year’s Eve services follow Metro’s offer of free bus travel across its network on Christmas Day, supporting safe and accessible travel during the festive period.
Metro Acting Chief Executive Officer Laurie Hansen said the initiatives reflected Metro’s ongoing commitment supporting the communities it serves and to community safety.
“The MAIB Nightrider service is a key demonstration of Metro’s commitment to road safety,” Mr Hansen said.
“We’re encouraging Tasmanians who are heading out to celebrate New Year’s Eve to plan ahead and catch a Metro bus home.”
Tasmania Police continue to work closely with Metro throughout the festive season to support public safety. Police will have a visible presence across retail and entertainment precincts and public transport hubs.
For more information on MAIB Nightrider services and New Year’s Eve timetables, visit metrotas.com.au.