Parked cars in Auckland's Point Chevalier cause 1.4km detour for bus users

Parked cars in Auckland's Point Chevalier cause 1.4km detour for bus users
Photo credit: Newshub

Public transport users attempting to enjoy a weekend at Coyle Park in Auckland's Point Chevalier faced a 1.4km walk to their final destination on Saturday due to illegally parked cars. 

Drivers illegally parked their cars at the Pt Chevalier Rd turning circle causing disruption to normal bus operations.

The Auckland hotspot has faced similar issues in the past with Auckland Transport (AT) previously having to close the bus stop closest to the park due to the buses accessing the area being unable to turn around safely.

Albert-Eden Local Board member Christina Robertson said on Twitter the board has asked AT for a plan for summer, since some proactive enforcement is needed.

Newshub contacted AT for comment and their spokesperson said they are aware of the problem, which escalated over lockdown as people used outdoor spaces more.

They also said AT can't push buses into areas they can't fit, so the team had to put mitigations in place based on driver feedback. There is no safe place to turn around if the area is congested with cars.

AT is continuing to send parking officers to the area to issue infringements for illegal parking and continue to monitor the situation.