The rollout of driver safety screens across Auckland’s public bus fleet has been completed, with more than 1,000 buses now fitted with protective barriers aimed at improving driver safety.
The programme, led by Auckland Transport (AT) with funding from Auckland Council and the Government, has seen 1,080 buses – around 80% of the city’s fleet – retrofitted with driver protection screens since work began in late 2024.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says the project delivers on a commitment to improve safety for bus drivers.
“Our bus drivers deserve to be safe at work as they are out there every day providing an essential service to Aucklanders. It’s why I committed $3.2 million to fund retro-fitting our public bus fleet with driver screens, so it’s great to see this being delivered on time and under budget,” Brown says.
“Completing the installation of over 1,000 safety screens is a practical way we’re backing bus drivers up and reflects the fact their safety matters.
“It sends a clear message that we’re doing what needs to be done to improve conditions and looking after the people who keep our city moving.”
Under new contract requirements, all buses joining the Auckland network in future will be fitted with driver safety screens as standard.
AT chief executive Stacey van der Putten says the programme represents a significant investment in driver safety.
“This has been a major, network-wide effort, and it’s great to see it completed at scale,” she says.
“While no single measure will eliminate anti-social behaviour, introducing physical barriers alongside other safety initiatives is helping reduce risk and improve outcomes for our drivers.”
Van der Putten says AT worked closely with bus operators, unions and drivers to ensure the screens met operational requirements.
The installation programme was completed at the end of June. AT says early indications show assaults on bus drivers have begun to stabilise, with the screens contributing to improved safety outcomes.
Tramways Union president Gary Froggatt says drivers have noticed the difference.
“Our drivers are telling us they feel safer and more confident behind the wheel with the screens in place.
“While incidents do still occur, the screens give them a clear separation from potentially volatile situations, which helps reduce stress and allows them to focus on driving and keeping passengers safe.”
The safety screens form part of a wider package of initiatives aimed at improving security across Auckland’s public transport network, including onboard CCTV, enhanced Crime Stoppers reporting, the Share My Journey feature in the AT Mobile app and the deployment of bus safety ambassadors.
