Thousands of Auckland bus drivers from a number of unions rejected the latest pay offer made by bus operator NZ Bus, the move that could impact 80,000 passengers due to interruption in public transport system.

Combined bus unions spokesman Karl Andersen said that every union member voted against the fresh offer making it a collective decision for the interests of driver community. He further informed that the operator, through its advocate, had approached the union for starting fresh round of talks to break stalemate but conveyed that the company has already declared its final offer.

Mr. Andersen said, "Effective public transport is the key to Auckland's future prosperity and most of the public recognizes this."

Rejecting the amended offer, Mr. Andersen said that very few changes have been made which are unacceptable to drivers. The delegates are again meeting on Saturday to decide the next course of action.

NZ Bus operations manager Zane Fulljames expressed shock at the decision adding that offer of even a 10.4 per cent pay rise over three years was rejected by the union.