Commonsense change to help people get home safely
New Zealand will scrap rules forcing hospitality venues to register as taxi services if they offer rides home, cutting costs and reducing drink-driving risks.
Regulation Minister David Seymour and Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced the removal of rules that currently classify hospitality businesses offering transport services as taxi operators if they accept contributions or fees. The change follows the Ministry for Regulation’s Hospitality Sector Review, which found these rules created unnecessary financial burdens without improving safety. Businesses previously faced costs of around $12,000 per month to comply, discouraging them from providing ride services to customers.
The Government accepted the Review’s recommendation to eliminate these passenger service requirements, acknowledging that financial contributions do not affect ride safety. The move aims to enable more venues, particularly in rural areas where traditional ride services are scarce, to offer transport options for patrons. Transport Minister Chris Bishop highlighted the practical benefits for communities, including reduced drink-driving risks and safer travel alternatives.
The changes will be integrated into the existing transport regulatory reform work programme, with implementation targeted for mid-2027. The Government also addressed inconsistencies in how councils manage excessive noise complaints in the hospitality sector, identifying a need for standardised noise controls nationwide under the new Planning system.
In the interim, guidance on managing noise complaints is available through the Quality Planning website, administered by MCERT, to support councils in adopting a more consistent approach. The Government reiterated its commitment to growing New Zealand’s night-time economy, citing recent decisions to support major events and improve urban vibrancy through better noise regulation.