The Total Mobility Scheme helps people who are unable to drive or safely travel on a bus because of a permanent or temporary impairment. To receive subsidised taxi travel, you will need an assessment to confirm that you meet the criteria for the scheme. If you're eligible, you can get discounted trips with approved transport providers to help you stay mobile and connected in Gisborne.
You receive a 75% discount on each taxi trip, up to a maximum fare of $12.
- For a $12 trip, you pay $3 and the scheme pays $9.
- If your fare is more than $12, you simply pay the extra amount.
You can apply if you live in the Gisborne district and have an impairment that makes it difficult or unsafe to use public transport on your own. Impairments may be permanent or temporary (6 months or more):
- Physical disabilities
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Neurological conditions
- Intellectual disabilities
- Mental health conditions
A doctor or approved assessor will check whether you can safely complete the key parts of a public transport trip on your own:
- Getting to the bus stop.
- Getting on the bus.
- Travelling safely during the trip.
- Getting off the bus.
- Getting to your final destination.
If you cannot safely do one or more of these steps, you may be eligible.
How to join the scheme
To apply for the Total Mobility Scheme:
- Complete the application form with your doctor.
- You also need a quality, passport-style photo - this is required for your card.
- Drop your completed application with your photo into our Customer Service centre.
Our staff will review your application. If approved we will order your personalised swipe card which will be ready within 10-15 working days.
What will it cost me?
The scheme is free to join, but your doctor you may charge a fee for the assessment.
Once you have your Total Mobility card, you only need to pay your share of the taxi fare after the subsidy has been applied.
Application form
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You can ask for a review by writing to Council.
- Include any supporting information.
- Your request will be reviewed and we will respond in writing.
Using your Total Mobility card
Your card can be used any day of the week, 24 hours a day.
- Show the driver your card when you enter the taxi.
- Swipe your card at the start and end of your trip
- If your card is not swiped, the subsidy will not be applied.
- Pay the driver your share of the fare at the end of your trip.
Important - the discount only applies when your card is used and you must stay in the vehicle for the whole trip.
You must live in the Gisborne district to use the scheme.
- Tell Council if your circumstances change.
- Do not use Total Mobility for trips already paid for by another organisation.
- There is no limit on how often you can travel.
- Caregivers can travel with you.
Trips not covered
- Work travel (your employer should pay).
- School transport (paid by the school).
Approved transport providers
- Gisborne Taxi Society - 867 2222 (hoist available)
- Driving Miss Daisy - 868 8082 or 021 503 816 (hoist available)
- Gisborne Airport and City Taxi - 022 586 7732
If you require a wheelchair hoist van, please pre-book. No minimum fare is charged when using a wheelchair hoist van.
Using your card elsewhere
Total Mobility cards can be used in other regions throughout New Zealand where Total Mobility operates. Before travelling, check with the local council for available services and subsidy details in that region.
Lost card
If you lose your card, you can get a replacement. Contact Gisborne District Council as soon as possible.
The scheme is administered by Gisborne District Council and funded by both Council and the New Zealand Transport Agency.