The Transport Minister is not offering a helping hand from the government to fix Wellington's bus problems.

This after the city's mayor joined the call for Phil Twyford to consider appointing a crown observer at the regional council.

Before Christmas, it seemed things were on the right track to fixing a disastrous rollout of the new bus network, but now the capital is facing a significant driver shortage.

Transport Minister Phil Twyford says he has no intention of calling in a crown observer at this stage.

"Greater Wellington Regional Council has handled bus services in Wellington appallingly. It works for the people of Wellington, and it should fix this thing for the people of Wellington as soon as possible."

Instead of sending help, he had a blunt message for the council.

"This thing is fixable, and Greater Wellington Regional Council needs to do its job."