Coping without a car – what are your options?

Giving up a car can save you money that you’re not spending on fuel, insurance, registration and costly maintenance. This is money you can use elsewhere or to fund other transportation options, such as taxis or public transport. 

1. Walking 

Walking is a great way to get around and stay healthy. But older people are more at risk of injury if they’re involved in an accident while walking. Be careful, stay alert while out on the road (eg, don’t wear headphones) and wear bright clothes so others can see you. If you’re walking any distance, make sure you don’t get too tired and risk falling. Find a bench and sit down for a while along the way. 

2. Cycling 

Cycling is a great way to get around, stay healthy, and help the environment. It's also affordable and fun! But, just like walking, when you’re sharing the road or cycle-path, you need to keep your wits about you. E-bikes have changed the game and made the roads accessible for many ages. Remember, take care when you’re travelling at higher speeds. 

Image credit: Canva

To be a safe and courteous cyclist: 

• Follow the road rules. 
• Be visible. 
• Show your intentions to turn left or right or stop clearly. 
• Be respectful of others. 
• Make sure your bike is well-maintained and has working brakes. 
• Use headlights and reflectors if riding at night. 
• ALWAYS wear a cycle helmet – it’s the rules! 

Read more about cycling and cycling safely.(external link)

3. Public transport 

In most big cities in Aotearoa New Zealand, local buses, trains and ferries do a good job of getting you from A to B, hassle free! And if you have a SuperGold card, you can travel on these for free at off-peak times. Find out more about SuperGold cards(external link) for people over 65 years of age. 

 Bonus: having a SuperGold card also means you’ll get special offers and discounts on many other services. 

 You can also use buses and trains to travel comfortably between many cities. 

Image credit: Canva

4. Taxis and ride-shares 

Taxis are usually available in most areas. The Total Mobility Scheme provides discounted taxi fares for eligible people with long-term impairments. This includes transport to many organisations such as Alzheimers New Zealand. Read about the Total Mobility Scheme.

Ride-sharing apps such as Uber let you book a driver using your phone. Instead of waiting to find a taxi on the street, or calling a number, you can request a ride through the app. Transport like this is often cheaper than calling a taxi, but might not be available across all parts of Aotearoa. 

Driving Miss Daisy(external link) is a pre-booked companion driving service available across many areas of Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s wheelchair accessible, recognised by ACC and is part of the Total Mobility Scheme. Rates will vary depending on the area and requirements of your travel. 

5. Family and friends 

If your whānau and friends know you don’t have a car, they’re likely to offer you a lift ‘to and fro’ occasionally. Sharing a ride can be a great way to connect and catch up on news. You might like to offer to cover part of the cost of petrol if it becomes a regular thing, eg, a weekly appointment or shopping trip. 

6. Mobility scooters 

Mobility scooters are good for people who can’t walk far. However, it’s important to know how to stay safe while using one. You can find more information on the Mobility scooters page(external link) including the rules on where and how you can use them. 

7. Government support 

The National Travel Assistance (NTA) scheme supports eligible people who need to travel long distances or travel frequently for specialist treatment. Learn more about NTA.(external link) 

The Total Mobility Scheme(external link) operates nationwide to help eligible people access the right transport to meet their needs.  

8. Community transport services 

Some local councils and many organisations offer community transport to make sure you can get to your healthcare or other appointments. You can find out what’s on offer in your area by contacting your local council, community centre or church or by googling ‘Community transport services NZ’. This helpful brochure from Age Concern(external link) also lists some community transport providers. 

Many hospitals in Aotearoa New Zealand run shuttle services between hospitals. Other services might provide transport to help you get to appointments. Some are free, while others might ask for a fee or donation.

Here are some examples: 

• Cancer Society NZ(external link) – a dedicated team of volunteers will drive you to treatments when your whānau and friends aren't available.
• Waka Ora Health Shuttles Hato Hone St John(external link) – a koha (donation) based community service, delivered by volunteers, that transports people to health and wellbeing-related appointments, and then brings them home again.