Dealing with violence ‘has to rest with the police’: chairman
and threatening behaviour.
Security has been patrolling Tauranga bus stops since January 2021. As previously reported, police have asked that guards observe, record and report only.
It is understood there was no security presence at Farm St on Thursday because resources — previously split between there, Willow St and a Greerton stop — were focused on Willow St.
Incidents at that stop in recent weeks include vandalism and brawling. Police have made arrests and seized a homemade taser and a knife from youths in the area.
Regional council chairman Doug Leeder told the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend Thursday’s attack was unacceptable and the primary responsibility for addressing it “has to rest with the police department”.
“The council . . . we are endeavouring to increase the level of security personnel but these guys can’t be everywhere all of the time,” he said.
“Unless boundaries are set and there are consequences for crossing those boundaries, these will be ongoing issues.”
Council transport and urban planning manager James Llewellyn said a regular security presence would be restored at Farm St from Monday.
NZ Bus chief operating officer Jay Zmijewski said he believed the offenders should be prosecuted “for their treatment of our driver” and the damage to the bus.
Zmijewski said NZ Bus had already offered the driver counselling and would provide them with further support.
“NZ Bus have already made arrangements to retrieve CCTV footage and will be making this footage available to the police.”
If drivers feel threatened or unsafe, they are encouraged to contact police via the NZ Bus operations centre or 111.
They are also authorised to secure the bus and remove themselves from it if that is the safest option, Zmijewski said. — additional