The incident has prompted the Christchurch City Council to consider installing safety bollards as part of a broader review of security measures at the interchange located at the intersection of Colombo and Lichfield Sts.
The reckless event occurred on a Friday evening in September, just after 6pm, and was disclosed to city council members during a security briefing at the interchange last week.
Bruce Rendall, the city council’s head of facilities and property, expressed gratitude that no one was harmed during the incident, highlighting that pedestrians were present in the area at the time.
Police were promptly informed and are currently investigating the matter.
Although no updates have been received from the police regarding the incident, the city council remains unaware of the driver’s whereabouts.
Additionally, police were unable to provide any further information when contacted by The Star this week.
In response to the incident, the city council is considering the installation of bollards to enhance pedestrian safety, among other planned initiatives for the facility.
Mark Peters, the Hornby Ward city councillor, expressed surprise at the donuts incident and emphasized the need for authorities to take action when necessary, lending his support for the introduction of bollards.
In a separate incident, two young females rode scooters through the interchange and assaulted security personnel.
Rendall confirmed that the individuals were apprehended by authorities.
The city council has already implemented various measures to enhance safety at the bus interchange, including security guards, CCTV surveillance, and regular police patrols.
Efforts such as collaborating with homeless outreach services and providing a safe space for youth known as the igloo have also contributed to improving the safety environment.
Rendall mentioned that unconventional methods, such as playing classical music in hangout areas, have proven effective in deterring undesirable behavior.
Despite a significant increase in foot traffic at the interchange over the past 18 months, Rendall noted a decrease in serious incidents, attributing the improvement to the implemented initiatives.
Future key initiatives under consideration include AI CCTV monitoring for enhanced surveillance capabilities, help call points within the building, a dedicated security kiosk in the public area, and a public awareness campaign titled ‘See something, Say something’ to encourage reporting of concerns.
Ruby-Grace Miller, a teenager who advocated for improved security at the interchange, commended the new security measures as a positive step forward.
The introduction of the Igloo youth safe space has notably improved the sense of security for her and her friends while waiting for their bus, according to the 17-year-old.
Miller’s survey of 235 students in June revealed that a majority felt unsafe or uncomfortable at the interchange, with many reporting instances of aggressive behavior, vandalism, and other security concerns.
