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A New Zealand bus driver has shown he is the best behind the wheel, winning first place in the inaugural trans-Tasman bus drivers' "roadeo" on the weekend.
New Zealand and Australian bus and coach companies pitted their driving, bus knowledge and customer service skills against each other at the Wigram Air Base in Christchurch on Sunday at the Tranzqual ITO Australasian Bus Roadeo.
Sixteen New Zealand drivers and three Australians took part.
Mike North from Red Bus in Christchurch was named Bus Driver of the Year.
Second place went to Australian driver Roy Ida from Parramatta, and third place was won by Ranui Hui from Ritchies Transport in Swanson.
The award for best customer service went to Palmerston North driver Matthew Best from Tranzit Route Services.
Organisers said the drivers were chosen to compete in the event because of their low complaint and accident rates, customer service skills and professionalism.
- NZPA