Police have joined forces with Auckland transport, to combat an increase in abuse towards bus drivers

Since 1 August there has been 35 reported incidents involving abuse or aggression towards Auckland's bus drivers - despite low patronage due to Alert Level 4.

Mayor Phil Goff says drivers working in level 4 are doing the community a service, and don't deserve the abuse.

Police will board buses and patrol stops, as well as provide de-escalation training to drivers.