Bus drivers say they're being put in an awkward position when it comes to face masks

Under Covid-19 alert level 1, mask wearing is mandatory on public transport.

Ministry of Health advice to bus drivers is that they should encourage passengers where possible.

However Bus and Coach Association president Alex Voutratzis says passengers are increasingly not wearing masks and drivers are being left in the lurch.

He says unless drivers are asking for a medical certificate, it's very hard for them to be challenging a passenger on whether they should be wearing a mask.

A Government spokesperson says however transport operators are given clear guidance at every change in Alert level.