On August 3, 2025, a 27-year-old woman was arrested in New Zealand on charges of child abuse after a two-year-old girl was discovered alive inside a suitcase in the luggage compartment of an InterCity bus traveling between Auckland and Whangarei. The child was found during a routine stop in the town of Kaiwaka when a passenger requested access to the under-bus storage area, prompting the driver to notice movement in a suitcase.
Police Inspector Simon Harrison reported that the child, though overheated, had no physical injuries and was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. The woman has been charged with ill-treatment and neglect of a child, facing potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison. She appeared in North Shore District Court, where her identity was withheld, and she was remanded in custody pending further psychiatric assessment.
Officials praised the vigilance of the bus driver, crediting his quick response with likely preventing a far worse outcome. Authorities are investigating the case further, working with child protection agencies to ensure the toddler’s safety.
The bus company clarified that children under three do not pay fare but are required to be accompanied by an adult, who must provide proper care during travel.