Staying safe on public transport
We’re committed to making public transport safer for everyone. Learn about the different options available across the network to keep you safe.
On this page
Your safety is our priority. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected when using public transport, and that includes you.
Whether you’re on a bus, train or ferry, or waiting at a stop or station, we’re committed to making your journey safe and comfortable.
By looking out for each other and reporting unsafe behaviour, we can create a public transport experience where everyone feels secure, supported and respected.
If someone is injured or there is a serious threat to life or property, please call 111 straight away.
There are a few different ways you can ask for help or report unsafe behaviours while travelling with us.
Making a report to Crime Stoppers
If something doesn’t feel right, let us know.
If you see something, say something. If you see or experience behaviour that makes you or someone else feel threatened, frightened or uncomfortable, report it by:
- texting 4030
- clicking ‘Report feeling unsafe’ on your AT Mobile app
- filling a report online.
Even if it may seem small, your voice matters. If you don’t feel comfortable including your details, a report can be made anonymously.
By making a report you are helping make public transport safer for everyone. Your report helps us respond where we can and understand where we need to make improvements.
You can help by reporting:
- harassment or intimidation
- verbal abuse or threats
- vandalism
- catcalling, sexual comments or gestures
- taking photos of another person without their permission
- flashing or exposing intimate body parts
- stalking or following.
Sometimes you may not be able to explain why something feels wrong, and that’s okay. If something doesn’t feel right, we still want to hear from you.
How to use a safety point
Safety points are located at every major bus, train and ferry terminal. They are easily identified by their bright orange colour.
If you are feeling unsafe, press the help button to alert our team that something is wrong. Pressing the button will immediately connect you to the Auckland Transport Operations Centre (ATOC). This service is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
This service will not connect you to emergency services. If you are in immediate danger, please call 111.
What happens once you push the button?
The ATOC team will immediately answer your call and ask what help you need.
The team will also access the nearest CCTV camera so they can better monitor the situation through both audio and video.
If you are unable to respond, or we think you are in immediate danger, the team will send emergency services to your location. Police may also use our CCTV network to coordinate a response.
If you are not in immediate danger, but are feeling unsafe, our team member will stay on the line with you for as long as you need.
Safety points should only be used in the case of emergencies. Please contact us online for information on timetables and ticketing.
How to use the emergency button on trains
All trains on our network are fitted with large red emergency buttons. These are often located near the carriage exits.
In an emergency, these buttons can be pushed to alert train staff that urgent assistance is required.
What happens once you push the button?
Once an emergency button is activated, the train driver will be alerted to an incident onboard. They will then access the live CCTV to decide if the train needs to stop immediately.
The driver will then radio the train manager that an emergency button has been activated. The manager will make their way to the carriage to assist (where applicable).
Our train managers are trained to de-escalate violent situations or provide first aid if required.
Often, trains will continue moving to the next platform as they provide a better location for:
- the train crew to investigate the situation
- emergency services to locate
- passengers to safely disembark if an evacuation is required.
CCTV footage is kept on file and may be provided to police if a crime has occurred. You can request a copy of CCTV footage by submitting an official information request.
The role of AT transport officers
They’re not just here to check fares — they’re here to keep you safe.
Transport officers are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers across Auckland’s public transport network.
You may see our officers:
- patrolling transport areas
- enforcing fare compliance
- managing incidents
- assisting in emergency situations in collaboration with emergency services.
Transport officers are deployed proactively and work to a rotating roster. This helps them to provide a visible, reassuring presence and to deter antisocial behaviour.
If you feel uncomfortable or threatened at any time during your journey, you can approach a transport officer for help. They are there to support you and keep you safe.
How we use CCTV cameras for your safety
Auckland Transport’s CCTV cameras play an important role in keeping Auckland moving. There are approximately 4800+ cameras in operation across our bus, ferry, rail, roading, cycling and parking facilities.
CCTV monitors all aspects of transport within the Auckland region. Cameras are operated by ATOC, which is a joint venture between Waka Kotahi and AT.
Auckland Transport takes reasonable steps to let that the public know where CCTV systems are operating. Learn more about CCTV Management at Auckland Transport.
Reporting safety concerns to New Zealand Police
If someone is injured or there is an immediate threat to life or property, call 111 straight away. To make a non-emergency police report, call 105.
The New Zealand Police also provide great advice on how to keep yourself and others safe. Visit their keeping safe page on their website for tips and resources.
