Some school bus operators who have lost their contracts say a shortage of drivers in some areas could affect pupils going back to school next week.
The Ministry of Education has awarded contracts to different operators after calling tenders last year, putting up to 60 companies out of business.
Two companies, Ritchies and Go Bus, won more than half of the school bus routes.
Bay of Plenty operator Neil Jamieson,says many drivers won't work for the big companies and he believes driver shortages will show up in coming weeks.
However, Ritchies Coachlines, which won 150 new school routes, says it has enough drivers and expects no problems.
