Rural School Transport & Education Access Survey

As part of RWNZ advocacy for our rural communities, the Education Policy And Advocacy Group is really keen to gather as much data, stories and examples as possible on the subject of school bus services. We need to gather as much information as possible, both good and bad, to support our work with the relevant policy agencies.

We invite you to complete this survey and to also share it with others – your network of friends, family, co-workers, employees, neighbours etc who may also have an interest in school bus services. It is important that we get as many responses as possible and thank you for helping us extend our reach.

Please be assured that all responses will be treated as confidential unless you choose to provide your contact details and indicate that you are happy to talk further to one of our team members.
About you:
1.Which region/district do you live in?
2.What is connection to school-aged children?
3.How many school-aged children live with you?
4.Which schooling level / type are members of your family involved in? (Tick all that apply)
Section 2: School Transport Acess
5.Do your children currently use a Ministry of Education funded school bus service?
6.Has the delivery of your local school bus changed at all in the past 2 years?
7.n If you have noted the changes in Question 6, how have htey impacted your family or community? (Tick all that apply)
8.How far is your home from your child's school (in km)?
9.Does your family qualify under the Ministry of Education's current eligibility rules for school transport?
Section 3: Access, Equity & Safety
10.In your opinion, how fair are the current rules for school bus eligibility?
11. Have safety concerns increased due to changes in school transport?
12.In your opinion, what do you believe are the impacts of current transport challenges on the rural families and children in your community?
13.What changes would you most like to see in school transport policy? (Tick up to 3)
Section 4: Final Thoughts & Advocacy
14.Do you believe children in rural areas currently have equitable access to education?
15.Would you be willing to share your story for advocacy (e.g., media or policy submission)?
16.Any final comments or personal stories about school transport you'd like to share?
17.Optional Contact (for follow-up media, or advocacy support