Airport not responsible for high taxi fares across Auckland

Claims that airport responsible for high taxi fares across Auckland are incorrect.

Auckland Airport to audit taxi journeys and calls for taxis to develop new options, such as fixed fares.

Auckland Airport has said today that claims by some taxi companies that the airport is responsible for high taxi fares across Auckland are incorrect.

Richard Barker, Auckland Airport’s spokesman, says, “The airport is focused on providing travellers with a range of affordable transport choices. This includes everything from cheaper pre-booked taxis, to shuttles, buses, rental cars and, of course, the ability to drive and park their own car at the airport.”

“We reject claims that Auckland Airport is responsible for the high taxi fares across Auckland. Almost all of the costs incurred by the taxis to operate at Auckland Airport are recovered directly from passengers through the $6 to $8 ‘airport pick-up charge’.”

“Taxi companies are therefore responsible for the rest of the taxi fare.”

“Travellers who get stuck in Auckland traffic congestion should be aware that ‘waiting fees’ will be added by the taxi company to their fare when the vehicle is stationary or stuck in slow moving traffic. This will significantly increase the total amount they have to pay.”

“Given the concerns raised by the public about the high fares, Auckland Airport will now regularly undertake mystery passenger audits of taxi pick-ups from the airport. Any drivers and companies found to be charging excessive amounts or taking longer than necessary routes will be immediately reported to their employer and, if required, to the New Zealand Transport Agency.”

“We are also encouraging taxi companies to introduce new offers for customers, which could include fixed fares to the city and other key locations. We would expect this action to reduce the cost of the longest taxi trips from the airport.”

“We are also increasing the signage and information we already have at the airport to ensure passengers are better informed of the approximate fares to locations around Auckland, and to ensure they are fully aware of the more affordable transport options and their rights as passengers,” says Mr Barker.

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