Bus row undoes public transport campaigns

Auckland's transport bosses are disappointed about the continued impasse over the city's bus dispute.

Nine-hundred New Zealand Bus drivers and cleaners have rejected an offer from the company for an 11.5 percent pay increase over three years.

Union representatives had recommended the offer to their members as it was a one percent increase on the previous offer.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority CEO Fergus Gammie says in the interests of the travelling public, it is critical the dispute is resolved as soon as possible. He says yesterday's developments are disappointing and he is encouraging both parties to settle the situation with urgency.

The Newmarket Business Association fears the ongoing dispute has undone years of work to get people to use public transport.

CEO Cameron Brewer says the past few months have done nothing to encourage people to get out of their cars and onto using public transport.

"This impasse undermines so much public transport progress in the last few years and so much goodwill by the public travelling public around Auckland. It's just disappointing."

Mr Brewer says a reliable bus service is also critical for areas such as Newmarket if they are to function to their potential.