AT executive general manager public transport services Stacey van der Putten told the Herald there will be “chaos and confusion” if the action goes ahead.
“Auckland Transport is strongly encouraging NZ Bus and driver unions to reach a compromise during their facilitated bargaining meeting today.”
Van der Putten said the AT HOP card equipment does not only scan for payment but allows buses to show what route they are operating on.
“Without basic information like bus routes being displayed on buses, it will be very hard for our customers to navigate the bus network next week, including for school students travelling on both school buses and scheduled AT services.”
“NZ Bus operates about 35 per cent of Auckland Transport’s bus services, meaning that any widespread industrial action from NZ Bus drivers will have a significant impact on Auckland’s bus services next week.”
Courtney said the action is two-fold. Firstly, it’s an opportunity for Aucklanders to get out and enjoy the city and secondly, it continues the union’s campaign for $30 per hour wages.
“They want Aucklanders to get out and enjoy their city over the holiday weekend while continuing to build support for fair wages and conditions for NZ Bus drivers, who want $30 per hour as they were promised and as has already been accomplished in Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.”
Courtney said the union has more action in the back pocket, but it depends on the response from the companies.
“I haven’t heard from the companies [since the strike was announced]. They haven’t come back to the table to discuss with us.”
She said this was “horrifically disappointing”.
“When you get promised as a bus driver you’ll be on $30 an hour and the company comes back significantly lower and we have to have a massive fight and go to these extremes to be heard, it’s disappointing and frustrating.”
The latest action comes after a week of strikes which saw thousands of commuters affected as union drivers walked off the job between 4am and 8am.
Courtney says by making transport free for the next week, Aucklanders can support the strike - and see more of the city.
NZ Bus is the largest bus service operator in the Auckland region.
“After a week of industrial action, the drivers are staunch and united in their resolve to settle this dispute and get back to work, but the company don’t appear to be listening yet,” Courtney said.
“Passengers on our bus services have an important voice in letting Auckland Transport and NZ Bus know that their drivers are worth more - we are relying on their support.
“With Warriors and All Blacks games on this weekend, there’s plenty to do and your bus drivers will be happy to help you get around the city for free - they’re encouraging everyone to make plans, travel somewhere new or familiar, and support the strike.”
Auckland Transport has been approached for comment for this article.
