Articles tagged with Total Mobility

Government Strengthens Total Mobility Scheme to Enhance Transport for Disabled New Zealanders

2 weeks ago | 211 views

The Government is strengthening the Total Mobility scheme to enhance transport options for disabled and older New Zealanders by adopting a national purpose statement, reviewing funding for wheelchair accessible vehicles, and considering expanded provider standards including ride-hail services. After extensive public consultation, the Government decided against imposing mandatory documentary evidence, periodic reassessments, or trip caps to avoid burdening users, aiming to balance scheme sustainability with user independence. Funding changes implemented in July 2026 reduced subsidies and fare caps to address financial shortfalls, with further decisions on public transport concessions and operational reviews to be made by Cabinet and the NZ Transport Agency.

Tags: Chris Bishop Louise Upston Total Mobility New Zealand NZ Transport Agency Ministry for Cities Environment Regions and Transport disability transport public consultation wheelchair accessible vehicles

New Zealand Updates AML Identity Verification Code to Ease Customer Barriers by 2026

2 months ago | 694 views

New Zealand's refreshed anti-money laundering Identity Verification Code of Practice, effective from July 2026, aims to reduce unnecessary barriers by providing clearer guidance, greater consistency, and a risk-based approach to identity checks. The update simplifies verification processes, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled, and introduces trusted referees and standardized exceptions to ease compliance for businesses. This reform, developed through public consultation, seeks to focus AML efforts on real financial crime while reducing costs, delays, and frustration for ordinary New Zealanders and businesses.

Tags: Brooke van Velden Nicole McKee New Zealand Identity Verification AML Code Māori Land Court SuperGold Cards Total Mobility Cards Omnibus Bill

Government to Adjust Total Mobility Scheme Subsidies to Ensure Long-Term Viability

8 months ago | 1166 views

The New Zealand Government will reduce the Total Mobility fare subsidy from 75% to 65% starting July 2026 and work with public transport authorities to lower fare caps by about 10%, aiming to ensure the scheme’s financial sustainability amid rising costs and demand. To support public transport authorities facing funding shortfalls, the Government will allocate $10 million and recycle savings to reduce regional shortfalls over 2025-2030, while also consulting on improving access and targeting of the scheme. These changes seek to maintain consistent, fair, and sustainable support for disabled and older New Zealanders who rely on subsidised taxi fares when they cannot use public transport independently.

Tags: Chris Bishop Louise Upston Total Mobility NZ Transport Agency Ministry of Transport New Zealand Government public transport disability support fare subsidy transport authorities