Significant improvements to public transport in the Wakatipu Basin are one step closer to being rolled out later this year.

Otago regional councillors have approved an amendment to the Otago Regional Public Transport Plan 2014.

Which aims to improve the Wakatipu Basin public transport network by simplifying routes, extending coverage, and increasing service frequency.

The ORC received 529 public submissions were received on the proposed changes, with 21 submitters presenting to hearings held in Queenstown this week.