Subsidised door-to-door transport is becoming available for wheelchair users in South Taranaki under the region’s Total Mobility scheme.
South Taranaki’s new wheelchair-hoist van. PHOTO: Kimba Mallowes.
A wheelchair-hoist vehicle is part of the two-van fleet of South Taranaki Passenger Services Inc, which is taking over as Total Mobility provider in Hāwera.
“It’s a significant enhancement that will widen the transport options for the wheelchair users among Total Mobility’s 125 clients in South Taranaki,” says Chris Clarke, Transport Services Manager for the Taranaki Regional Council which administers the Total Mobility scheme.
The previous Hāwera operator, Energy City Cabs, was unable to offer a wheelchair option.
South Taranaki Passenger Services Inc takes over in early February after Energy City Cabs withdraws from the town to focus on its operations in North Taranaki, where it will continue to offer the Total Mobility service.
“Energy City Cabs has provided an excellent Total Mobility service in Hāwera since 2014 and we’ll continue working closely with them in North Taranaki, where they also provide a high standard of service,” says Mr Clarke.
People with impairments that prevent them using public transport are eligible for assistance under the Total Mobility scheme, which provides a 50% subsidy up to maximum of $20 (half of a $40 fare). The subsidy is claimed using a special swipe card issued to those who meet the scheme’s criteria.
For more information, see www.trc.govt.nz/total-mobility/ or email totalmobility@trc.govt.nz.
All Total Mobility card holders in South Taranaki are being individually notified of the new arrangements. After the changeover on 2 February, they can call 06 278 3933 to book their Total Mobility trip (wheelchair or non-wheelchair).