Waipā residents with a condition that makes travel tricky are encouraged to register for a scheme to help make getting out in the community easier and cheaper.
Total Mobility is a national door-to-door transport scheme involving disability agencies, taxi companies, other transport providers and local government.
Cambridge, Te Awamutu, Ōhaupō, Pirongia and other Waipā residents may be eligible for subsidised door-to-door transport with Total Mobility providers.
Waipā District Council and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will cover half the fare, up to $12.50 per trip, with the user paying the remainder.
Since launching in May 2019, the service has provided more than 4300 trips to Waipā residents.
Council’s transportation manager Bryan Hudson said Total Mobility is a great solution for people who have conditions that limit their ability to get around on their own.
“By supporting our residents with subsidised trips, we’re ensuring people with mobility challenges can meet their daily needs in a safe and dignified manner.”
Te Awamutu resident Anne Otto and her husband Geoffrey have been using the scheme since it rolled out in Waipā last year.
“With Total Mobility, we are able to spend more time out and about going to cafes, shops and appointments,” Anne said.
“We don’t hesitate to use the scheme when we need it – and we would highly recommend the service to anyone in the district who needs a little help getting from A to B.”
To register your interest for the scheme, take the survey at www.waipadc.govt.nz/tm or phone 0800 WAIPADC (0800 924 723).
Once a Waipā resident has registered their interest, they will be contacted to arrange an eligibility assessment.
Residents who register their interest before Wednesday 16 December can receive a free eligibility assessment.
Total Mobility is administered by Waikato Regional Council, with support from Waipā District Council.