What is the Total Mobility Scheme?

The Total Mobility Scheme (the Scheme) provides a subsidised taxi service to people with serious mobility constraints by way of a personelised swipe card . These provide a discount of (usually) 50 percent off the normal taxi fare.

Background

The scheme was initiated in the early 1980s in response to the need of people with disabilities who are unable to use the public transport system.

This service is provided throughout New Zealand and is usually limited to urban areas with most regions having local authorities (usually regional councils) manage and operate the Scheme.

At present, there are approximately 43,000 registered members of the scheme nationally and consultation has shown that it is absolutely essential to those who rely on it. Please visit http://www.transport.govt.nz/total-mobility-index/ for more information

Access and Eligibility

There are two ways to apply for the Total Mobility Scheme. Either through a health referral or by self-referral. Please contact us if you require further information or wish to make an appointment. 

Health Referral

You can be referred to us by your

• Family/whanau or Local Health Centre

• Health Professional

• Care Provider

They can contact us on your behalf and request an assessment to be completed.

Self Referral

You can contact us directly at the Disability & Equipment on 04 298-2914 or 0800 69 33 42 and request an appointment to be assessed.

Once we have received your request there are three  stages to be followed;

1. Referrals

   We record all referrals on a referral form. We may contact you to discuss this.  If we’re satisfied that we’re the correct agency for you and that you seem to meet the criteria of being “a person with a disability which permanently affects your mobility” please note that automatic assessment is not guarenteed.

2. Your assessment

   We’ll forward your details to an approved assessor, who will then phone to arrange a time to visit you in your home. They will talk about your needs and assess your eligibility for the scheme. Once the assessment is complete, the assossor will take a passport sized photo of you for your swipe card. There is a non-refundable administration fee of $25.00 for the assessment which you will need to pay to the assessor when they visit. They will happily accept cash or a cheque. A receipt will be issued and sent to you upon processing your application.

3. Processing
   Following your assessment, your application is sent to the Regional Council for their approval.  If your application is  approved, the Regional Council will send you information on the scheme and your new swipe card. This card has your name, photo and client number on it.

 Total Mobility Scheme Membership

• The taxi vouchers entitle you to half price fares (up to a maximum subsidy of $40.00 per trip)

• You can take one caregiver as a passenger if required for assistance on your journey.

Mobility Parking

A new Mobility Parking website has been setup. The website address is: http://www.mobilityparking.org.nz

The site has excellent information on

• mobility parking permits

• how to apply for a permit

• renewing your permit

• changing and updating your details

• mobility parking near you

• travelling

• parking fro providers

• news and updates

• concerns and complaints

• newsletter

There is also information on CCS Disability Action. They provide support for people of all ages, and across the diverse cultures and disabilities in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Visit the CCS Disability Action website for more information about the support and other services they provide.