Police appeal for witnesses to World Cup opening night bus crash

Six pedestrians were taken to hospital after they were hit when this car and bus collided in Fanshawe St on the opening night of the Rugby World Cup. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Police are appealing for witnesses to a crash in downtown Auckland that injured four people - including a 12-year-old boy who remains in hospital - on Rugby World Cup opening night.

The 897 bus was en route to North Harbour when it crashed into the back of a car and pushed it into a group of pedestrians.

The crash happened on Fanshawe St, not far from where up to 200,000 people gathered to celebrate the tournament's opening.

Constable Paul Simcox, of the serious crash unit, said the investigation team needed to talk to anyone who witnessed the crash before they could decide whether anyone would be charged.

Police were unable to speak to passengers that night because they were transferred onto another bus before investigators arrived.

"If we're going to making a decision regarding charges then we need to make full inquiries and we can't say that we've made full inquiries until we've spoken to everyone who witnessed the crash."

Mr Simcox said the 12-year-old boy's condition was improving.

Witnesses can call the serious crash unit on 09 359 3109.