While locals wait for a verdict regarding an alleged assault on a bus in Pakuranga (as reported in the Times), Auckland Transport (AT) confirms violent crimes remain “rare” across its network.
“Everybody has the right to catch public transport without being subjected to this unacceptable behaviour, so we are working closely with police to make sure the transport network is a safe place for everyone,” AT’s Stacey van der Putten says. “As this is a societal issue, we need everyone’s help to ensure these public places can be safe and feel safe.”
Counselling has not been provided to the driver or other passengers of the Howick & Eastern bus at the centre of the alleged assault on June 28, which police contend was a ‘hate-motivated crime’. However, it is available through the service’s operator, Howick & Eastern Buses, AT confirms.
“Incidents [of crime] spiked in August 2022 and were trending down before a rise in May 2024,” Rachel Cara from AT adds. “Thankfully, [violent] incidents are still rare across the busy transport network.”
Across the network, safety initiatives have been stepped up with transport officers focused on south and east locations, especially during the school holidays.
“AT deploys transport officers to transport hubs and routes which are known as ‘hot spot’ locations [and] police are patrolling these locations more frequently,” Cara says. “[We] continue to collaborate with operators and unions regarding initiatives and campaigns to improve safety.”
Among other measures to help ensure safety, buses are fitted with CCTV, GPS and panic buttons connected to bus depots. Drivers are also trained in ‘de-escalation techniques’.
The story so far…
The Times has been reporting updates regarding the alleged assault including:
Alleged bus attacker appears in court
Suspect charged over Pakuranga bus assault
Police seeking “person of interest” following bus assault
