NZRRS Hino bus

 A New Zealand Railways Road Services Hino RK bus stands at Masterton Railway Station in 1989.  Over 200 of these buses were constructed in the late 1980s. The chassis were assembled at the Hino plant in Carterton, then driven (in all kinds of weather) to the bodybuilder at Palmerston North. Initially the first order was entirely for the Government operated company in the Wellington and Hutt Valley.

This picture shows an example in pristine condition with upgraded seating for charters. It was one of few times such a vehicle was used on the Masterton to Wellington Service. Wallace Trickett was one of two dedicated drivers of that run at the time. The buses were not built for long tour or service work, but after the Bedford SB which they replaced, were a joy for all drivers once they had mastered the extra length, rear engined vehicle, large Westcoast mirrors - which occasionally had arguments with bus stops, and power steering.

NZR changed their branding soon afterwards with this vehicle becoming part of the Cityline services, and long distance coaches as InterCity. (Wallace Trickett)