29 Sep 2010

Tourists 'fascinated' by relationship between Maori, Crown

6:38 am on 29 September 2010

The best bus driver in New Zealand says tourists are fascinated by the contemporary relationship between Maori and the Crown.

Waatea News reports Riki Katene, 47, of Kaiapoi, from Te Arawa and Tainui, beat 23 others for the title after tests of driving skills, mechanical knowledge and customer service.

He loves sharing Maori stories with his passengers, who often sound him out about the situation facing modern Maori.

"Our relationship with the Crown fascinates them," he said. "It doesn't matter what country they come from, they love it.

Mr Katene said he would encourage more Maori to become tour bus drivers.