B41 - Keeping Mobile without a Car
Here are some ideas for how you can continue doing what you want to do and stay mobile even if you do not own a car or no longer drive.
- Public transport. If you hold a SuperGold Card (see: www.supergold.govt.nz), you can travel for free on urban public
transport at off-peak times in many areas. Check with your regional council as to whether and how this applies in your area.
- Some community organisations operate door-to-door transport to help older people get to doctors' and hospital appointments. These are low cost - or even free
sometimes. Contact your local Age Concern, GreyPower, St John, Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) or Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association (RSA) to find out what services
operate in your area.
- Taxis. Many companies accept Total Mobility vouchers (see B7 Help with Transport Costs).
- Commercial personal driver services, such as Driving Miss Daisy (see http://drivingmissdaisy.co.nz), operate in some
areas, and some of these services accept Total Mobility vouchers.
- Mobility scooters. Some councils offer courses on how to operate and maintain your mobility scooter. Wellington City Council has a free mobility scooter hire scheme
to help people explore the city.
- Getting a lift with other people - and if you want to acknowledge their kindness, you could share expenses, give a little gift or offer to do something for them in
return.
- Walking and cycling. Many areas have seniors' walking groups, and some have seniors' cycling groups.
For more information