The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has confirmed bus driver protection screens will be installed across Auckland’s bus fleet by 2026.
“The Government is committed to improving the safety of working environments for bus drivers, and Budget 2024 allocated $15 million of Crown funding over two years to do just that,” said Transport Minister, Simeon Brown.
NZTA, which administers the funding on behalf of the Government, has concluded assessments on the first round of nine bids from Public Transport Authorities (PTAs) for funding across Auckland, Greater Wellington, Nelson-Tasman, and Hawke’s Bay.
“Today, I am pleased to confirm that an agreement has been reached to approve a bid for funding to retrofit full length driver screens for 80% of Auckland Transport’s bus fleet by 2026, or approximately 1,100 buses,” said Mr Brown.
“Bus drivers do an important job in our communities and the Government is committed to helping keep them safe as they go about their work. These hardworking New Zealanders often work with little to separate them from their passengers. Safety screens will provide protection and ensure our service continue to run smoothly and safely.”
Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown, today unveiled the first batch of driver safety screens alongside Ritchies Transport Chief Executive, Michele Kernahan and Auckland Transport Chief Executive, Dean Kimpton.
Mayor Brown says he prioritised funds for the safety screen rollout in recognition of the important frontline role bus drivers play in keeping Auckland moving.
“We’ve all been appalled by the recent cowardly attacks on bus drivers who are just trying to do their job for the public,” Mayor Brown said.
“This is an investment in their security and is a recognition that their work matters.
“I’m very pleased we are now starting to see buses retrofitted with these screens hitting the road. It shouldn’t be necessary – but, sadly, it is.
“We need to look after our drivers and keep them safe. These screens will make a huge difference.
“The bus drivers have been consulted on the design of these screens and the model that is being rolled out is something that incorporates their feedback. Tramways Union President Gary Froggatt has shown great leadership here and I want to acknowledge his important role.”
Auckland Transport Chief Executive, Dean Kimpton says the safety screens unveiled today with Ritchies showcased the level of protection and reassurance drivers across Auckland would soon experience.
“Our teams at Auckland Transport have been working closely with Ritchies on this early rollout of 50 driver protection screens for buses based at their Takanini and Albany depots,” Mr Kimpton said.
“By next June we will have driver safety screens installed on more than 300 buses across Auckland, thanks to the investment from Auckland Council and bus operators like Ritchies.
“With the Government co-funding announced this morning we will be able to further accelerate the rollout and install screens on 80% of the buses used on AT’s network by July 2026.
“The safety of our bus drivers and passengers is a huge priority for Auckland Transport and we’re pleased to be making real progress towards a safer network for all.”
NZTA is also considering funding to deliver driver toilet facilities and an on-board live CCTV trial for 30 buses, with results of the trial informing how Auckland Transport will roll out further CCTV cameras in future, the Minister confirmed.
“I look forward to these initiatives being delivered as soon as possible, and other funding bids to be confirmed in due course once final agreements are made,” he said.
