Auckland, New Zealand – A man was taken into police custody after allegedly committing a violent and unprovoked attack on a bus driver in Ponsonby yesterday afternoon. The incident unfolded around 4:30 pm when the 39-year-old man boarded the bus without tagging on, leading to a confrontation with the driver. The driver was reportedly punched and kicked by the man before he fled the scene by running up Ponsonby Rd, prompting the driver to pull over and seek help.
Following a brief search, authorities located the suspect and apprehended him without further issue. The man has since been charged in connection with the assault and is set to appear in the Auckland District Court on Friday. Auckland City Central Area Prevention Manager Inspector Dave Christoffersen expressed his shock at the incident, emphasizing that the driver was left understandably shaken by the attack, adding that support is being provided to her.
Christoffersen condemned the violence as an appalling act committed against an individual simply carrying out their job duties. He reassured the community that law enforcement is dedicated to holding those responsible for harm in the area accountable for their actions. Rachel Cara, Auckland Transport’s group manager of public transport relations, echoed similar sentiments, expressing sadness over the incident and vowing to collaborate with authorities to ensure the driver receives necessary assistance.
Cara emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety on the public transport network and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting drivers to maintain a secure work environment. The assault in Ponsonby occurred shortly before another incident involving a group of six young individuals, one of whom was found carrying a knife, who allegedly assaulted two people on a bus in Albany. Police were alerted to this assault around 5 pm when the victims arrived at Albany Bus Station following the attack aboard the bus.