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Dawn Jennings
Q: What do all the different rates mean and why do fares differ so much among taxi companies?
A: In all taxis you get charged for:
- Flagfall - an initial charge at the start of the journey
- Distance - this is a per kilometer rate
- Waiting time - such as when the taxi is stopped at lights or the driver waits for you to buy something from a diary
Like many companies, First Direct also charges an airport fee when picking up from the airport and a small fee for electronic transactions. These are to recover costs placed on us.
Some taxi companies have even more rates, like luggage handling fees, and all rates vary between companies. Be very careful when you choose a taxi company and compare all the rates. The kilometer rate is usually the most important rate but other rates also add to your fare. For example, if you are on a route with heavy traffic and lots of traffic lights you will pay more for waiting time.
Q: Do you take vouchers from other taxi companies?
A: Yes. We accept taxi vouchers from all taxi companies from around New Zealand, including Taxicharge and Cabcharge. We also take all Total Mobility vouchers, but if you are from another region please be aware that the discount you receive will be the Canterbury rate.
Q: Can a driver refuse to take me?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. A driver may refuse to accept a person as a passenger, or refuse to continue transporting a person, if:
- the driver believes that his or her personal safety is, or could be, threatened
- or if the person appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is dirty, eating or drinking, noisy or violent
Drivers may also refuse to take passengers who are accompanied by animals. Some drivers may accept small pets, but you must tell the operator if you have an animal with you. The exception to this is a guide dog, a disability companion dog or a hearing ear dog.
A driver may also refuse to accept a hire if the hirer has failed to pay the fare due for a previous hire or the driver has sought prepayment of the fare but has been refused.
Q: What happens to lost property?
A: By law, all drivers must, immediately after the termination of each hiring, check the vehicle for property that may have been left behind. If any property is found in the vehicle, the driver must notify our office immediately and, unless it is claimed, deliver it to a police station within 24 hours.
Advise for revellers: When out on the town, remember to take note of which taxi company you travelled with and the number of the cab and/or the driver's ID. It will save you the job of phoning every taxi company in the city next morning if you lose your cellphone.
