Changes to disability taxi discounts

As of 1 July 2026, the taxi discount for Total Mobility Scheme users will go from 75% to 65%.  

As well as sharing this change, our Government have asked for your feedback on the scheme. It currently covers people with long-term impairments who cant safely use public transport. You can read more about discounted taxi fares for our disability and elderly community in our transport section.  

Discounted taxi fares | Firstport 

Why we pay more now 

The Total Mobility Scheme started in the 80’s and is paid for by local councils and NZTA Waka Kotahi.  Every few years they take a look at it and might change it a bit. The last update in 2022 took the discount from 50% to 75%. This meant that instead of paying for half of the taxi fare, you would pay one fourth of it.  

In 2022 there were 1.8 million rides a year, in 2025 there are now 3 million rides a year. 

With more people using the scheme and taking more trips, the scheme has almost run out of money. Our Government hopes that by asking for a slightly bigger contribution from each member, they will be able to keep the scheme going as the number of members keeps getting bigger.  

From 1 July 2026, members will pay 35% of taxi fares instead of 25%.  

About the consultation 

Our Ministry of Transport reckon a few changes could help make Total Mobility better, including: 

• Clearer purpose and consistent eligibility – making sure who can access the scheme is fair and people who need it are able to get access. 

• Targeted support – how can more trips be in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and how can we make sure the subsidy is being used for trips that it’s supposed to support.  

• Promoting innovation – what other organisations like ride-hail services (e.g., Uber) could take part and could there be a national public transport concession for disabled people. 

They hope that these changes would keep Total Mobility able to keep going into the future and want to hear your thoughts! Consultation is open until 22 March 2026. 

Read the full discussion document and have your say at the link below. 
Proposals to Strengthen Total Mobility 

Alternate formats of the consultation material are being developed and will be published on the same link once available. 

Your feedback shapes the future 

Total Mobility is more than just a transport subsidy—it’s about independence, connection, and participation in everyday life. Your input can help shape the future of the scheme. 

For more information 

If you have any questions about the changes or the consultation process, please contact: 

Email: TotalMobilityReview@transport.govt.nz