A Queenstown Lakes District Council sub-committee described its move as a "warning shot" when it recommended the Otago Regional Council consult Queenstown residents to define the passenger transport system they want in the Wakatipu.
Council transportation planning manager Denis Mander gave the utilities committee a follow-up on his discussions with the council about the quality of the proposed system, to be delivered in the Wakatipu Basin within the next three years.
Mr Mander's report to the committee last month highlighted the need for greater certainty of the council's passenger transport responsibilities under the Wakatipu Transportation Strategy, which was in partnership with the council and the New Zealand Transport Agency.
Mr Mander said he did not believe there was a good understanding between the district and regional councils and the wider community about the desired passenger system.
Cr Gillian Macleod said buses that had room for the public to take their bicycles on board would be good, given the active nature of residents and visitors.
She asked if there were opportunities to use technology such as a global positioning system.
"Anyone hinted at making it free? There's a lot of free transport in tourist towns . . . this could be an opportunity to lobby Government for funds," she said.
Chairman John Mann said: "Funding of the service is beyond the scope of what you're suggesting."
Cr John S Wilson said there was a need to specify what type of buses were sought, for instance methanol versus electric-powered vehicles.
Mr Mander said: "We want a system that is identifiable as part of living in Queenstown and we need to clarify what that means."
Cr Lyal Cocks said he thought Mr Mander implied the council would push ahead if there was no progress with the regional council.
"I get the feeling the recommendation is a jolly-up to [the] ORC."
Mr Mann described it as a "warning shot" while Cr Lex Perkins said funding was the bottom line.
Wanaka community board member Dick Kane asked if there would be a requirement for land for the strategy's park and ride bus scheme.
Mr Mander said there was $800,000 set aside in this year's budget for procuring land.
The committee carried the recommendation that the ORC be requested to consult the public and stakeholders to define the qualities and branding needed for a "destination-enhancing" passenger transport system.
