'It's a big disappointment' – Wellingtonians demonstrate in CBD awaiting last ever trolley bus ride

A crowd of Wellington commuters congregated in the CBD to protest and take a final ride on the iconic trolley buses.

Around 50 Wellingtonians demonstrated in the central city, making impassioned speeches over why the city's trolley bus fleet should stay before its final trip today.

The famed electric bus fleet is set to be retired today after 60 years service.

Roland Sapsford, a transport advocate, says the government has missed an opportunity to show they're committed to having an influence on climate change.

"This isn't a wake. Everyone here should send an email to Phil Twyford (Transport Minister)," he said to the crowd.

One trolley bus picking up passengers on Willis St displayed a poster reading "I'll be replaced by a dirty diesel from tomorrow".

A handful of city and regional councillors were also at the gathering.

Chris Calvi-Freeman, a city councillor, expressed concern over the planned implementation of 10 electric double decker buses by the regional council next July.

He said several councillors are concerned about the weight of the fleet on the road and whether this will causes any issues.

"We're not convinced those buses will perform," he said.

"It's a big risk putting money into bleeding edge technology that is unproven on steep hills in Wellington."

There's also concern the fleet will cause vibrations along the Oriental Parade and Island Bay, with sand a consideration in these areas, he says.

The final trolley bus ride will take place at 11.50pm tonight from Karori to Kilbirnie. Some demonstrators are waiting for the final run.

The network began in 1949, with 110 trolley buses in service at its peak.

Around half that number were in service in more recent times. 

It will take a year to remove 82 kilometres of overhead wires across the city, with the work taking place at night time.

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