A number of tourists on board a bus from Christchurch to Greymouth abandoned it at Arthurs Pass because they feared for their safety.
The Press reports that passengers on a Atomic Shuttles bus became concerned about the erratic behaviour of the driver. A number of them got off at Arthurs Pass, and then some decided to hitchhike to their destination.
One American tourist told an employee at the Arthurs Pass Store and Cafe that the bus driver was driving quite erratically.
The Press reports that a motorist came across six hitchhikers at Arthurs Pass yesterday morning, and one of the group had told him that the driver had been swerving and his eyes were drooping on the way up the pass. There was a suggestion the driver may have had the flu he says.
Atomic Shuttles franchise owner Kevin Reddy told The Press he was aware of an incident and had spoken to a passenger who was on the bus. He declined to reveal the nature of their concerns.
Reddy says he had touched base with the driver but had yet to speak with him properly and investigate, and get the full version of events from all parties.
“If the reports are substantiated, and I’ve got no reason to suspect any foul play in that regard, yes, it is a concern. Obviously passenger safety is paramount.”
Reddy would not say if the bus driver had been stood down and declined to comment further.
