Auckland’s Tāmaki Drive was reopened this morning after Wednesday night’s horror collision between a bus and a car which saw the bus driver lose their life.
Auckland Transport said the destroyed bus had been removed and that all emergency services were stood down.
“All modes of transport are now able to use Tāmaki Drive between Ngapipi Road and The Strand, which was the section of road formerly closed to traffic yesterday.”
All bus services are back to operating as normal.
Police said enquiries into the Parnell collision, near Mechanics Bay, were “ongoing”.
“Police would like to thank all road users for their patience and understanding.”
Emergency services were called to the scene of the head-on crash at around 9.20pm, where both vehicles were engulfed in flames.
The bus driver was killed, and another person was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
Bus operator Kenetic confirmed the fire started in the car’s engine before spreading – and did not impact the electric bus’s batteries.
In a statement last night, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown said he was “saddened” to hear a bus driver was killed in the crash.
“It’s a stark reminder of the fragility of life and how it can change in the blink of an eye.
“My thoughts are with those affected, especially the family, colleagues, and friends of the driver who has passed away.
“I know AT is supporting the ongoing investigation, working with police, the bus company and other agencies and I expect, in these difficult times, that we wrap as much care around those impacted as they come to terms with this tragedy.
He urged Aucklanders to “please take extra care” on the roads, and “look after each other”, as Labour weekend approached.
Auckland Transport said it was “deeply saddened” by the loss of one of its bus drivers.
“Our thoughts are with their family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“Our drivers play a huge role in keeping our city moving. They’re part of our community, showing up every day to help people get where they need to go. This loss is felt across our organisation and by everyone who worked alongside them. We extend our condolences to all who knew and cared for them.”
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