General Information » Getting Around » Taxi

Taxis throughout New Zealand are run by private companies, many of which are approved by self-appointed quality-controllers, the New Zealand Taxi Federation. In general, taxis are metered, although for some journeys (those over particularly long distances, or in smaller towns) you may be able to negotiate a price beforehand. Available cars can be flagged down on the street, but it’s more common to either queue at a designated taxi rank or call ahead and get one to pick you up.

To know if a car is available for hire, look for the illuminated ‘taxi’ light on the top of the vehicle. Ranks are usually only available in city centres and large towns but all hotels, restaurants and bars will be able to provide you with a number to call. Smaller towns may have only one or two cars operating so book as far in advance as possible. Lone women travellers should have nothing to fear from riding in taxis late at night, though booking with the larger New Zealand Taxi Federation-approved companies is recommended.