A FREE park-and-ride shuttle service between EnergyAustralia Stadium and Rankin Park, paid for out of hospital parking revenue, is proving increasingly popular, Hunter New England Health says.

Since its introduction in May last year, the shuttle's patronage had steadily increased from about 10 to about 50 people a day, in addition to staff use.

It began as an hourly service but this was increased in May to every 40 minutes.

Parking at the stadium is free and people can be dropped at the entrance of the John Hunter Hospital or the Royal Newcastle Centre.