Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich said a new multi-agency working group would work to change the behavioral culture in the city's central hub.
The move comes after Trinity Catholic College student Enere Mclaren-Taana, aged 16, died following a seizure there on Thursday afternoon.
A 13-year-old boy accused of murder has been taken into custody after appearing in Youth Court on Friday and will appear in the Supreme Court on June 11.
In a statement today, Mr Radich said he and representatives from Dunedin City Council, Otago Regional Council and police met this morning and agreed to establish the new group.
“While our focus as a city must remain on supporting Enere's whānau as they prepare to say goodbye to their loved one, we must also do what we can to ensure these types of tragedies are not repeated,” Mr Radich said .
He said the terms of reference were being prepared and he would ensure schools, bus users and the wider community were all represented.
The group would aim to develop short, medium and long term options that can be implemented to improve busbub culture and would meet regularly.
“This is an important step aimed at changing behavior at the bus interchange, to ensure it is a safe space for everyone.
“Last week's terrible tragedy has sent shockwaves through our community, and we must all come together to address the issues.”
Otago Regional Council chair Gretchen Robertson said public safety at the hub was a priority for all parties.
“This new group is exactly what we need to do: work together to address the safety issues there.
“We will be working with the DCC, police and other parties in the coming days and weeks to assess the steps already taken and any new initiatives that may help.
“It will also be important to look at how we can engage young people, school communities and the wider community to help change behavior at the hub.”
She said there would be an increased security presence at the bus interchange in the meantime, in addition to an enhanced police presence, and that Bus Stop B would remain closed until further notice as a mark of respect.
“We acknowledge the outpouring of love and sympathy for the family and friends of the young person who tragically died and realize that an incident of this magnitude undermines public confidence. We are aware of the problems at the hub and are working hard to support people with extra security and presence.”
Police Inspector Marty Gray, Otago Coastal Area Commander, said police wanted to work with all parties to improve safety.
“We look forward to playing an active role in the group and ensuring everyone can use the bus interchange with confidence.”