Hong Kong Taxi Zones Explained

Navigating Hong Kong's vibrant streets can be a breeze, but understanding its taxi system might leave some travellers scratching their heads. Unlike many global cities where a single taxi colour signifies a single service, Hong Kong employs a colour-coded system, with each hue representing a distinct operating area. This guide aims to demystify these zones, specifically addressing the common query: are taxis allowed in the New Territories and on Lantau Island? The answer, as with many things in this dynamic metropolis, is nuanced and depends on the taxi's colour.

Understanding Hong Kong's Taxi Colours

Hong Kong boasts three distinct types of taxis, each with its own designated operating territory. This system, while initially appearing complex, is designed to ensure efficient service across the entire Special Administrative Region. The three colours are: Urban (Red), New Territories (Green), and Lantau (Blue).

Urban Taxis (Red)

The most ubiquitous taxis in Hong Kong are the red taxis. These are the workhorses of the city's taxi fleet and are permitted to operate throughout Hong Kong. This means they can be hailed or found at taxi ranks in all major urban areas, including Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. However, there are specific geographical exclusions. Red taxis are generally not allowed to operate on Tung Chung Road and most roads on South Lantau Island. While they can technically pick up passengers anywhere, their operational reach is limited in these specific, often more rural or restricted, areas.

New Territories Taxis (Green)

The green taxis are the designated carriers for the New Territories region. Their operating area is extensive and covers a significant portion of Hong Kong's landmass. These taxis are permitted to operate within:

• Tuen Mun District
• Yuen Long District
• Tai Po District
• North District
• Ma On Shan District
• Most areas of Sai Kung District (with the notable exception of Tseung Kwan O New Town, which falls under urban jurisdiction)

Furthermore, green taxis have specific permissions to serve key transport hubs and border crossings, particularly during night hours and for specific routes. These include:

• Lok Ma Chau Control Point (from 11:00 pm to 06:30 am)
• Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Public Transport Interchange
• Shenzhen Bay Port Hong Kong Port Area

Crucially, green taxis are also permitted to carry passengers along specified routes to and from several important locations, bridging the gap between the New Territories and other parts of Hong Kong. These locations include:

• Passenger Terminals and the Ground Transportation Centre of the Hong Kong International Airport in Chek Lap Kok
• Tsing Yi Station of Airport Railway
• Tsuen Wan MTR Station
• Prince of Wales Hospital
• The Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital
• Sha Tin Racecourse
• Shun Lee Estate in Kwun Tong
• Hong Kong Disneyland
• Hang Hau MTR Station
• The Public Transport Interchange at the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

It's important to note a specific regulation for green taxis when using the Shing Mun Tunnels for journeys to and from Tsuen Wan MTR Station, Tsing Yi AR Station, Hong Kong Disneyland, and the Hong Kong International Airport Passenger Terminal 1. This detail highlights the precise routing requirements for these services.

Lantau Taxis (Blue)

The blue taxis are exclusively designated for Lantau Island and its surrounding areas. Their operating area is more restricted compared to the other two types. Blue taxis are permitted to operate on:

• Lantau Island
• Chek Lap Kok (where the Hong Kong International Airport is located)
• The Public Transport Interchange at the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

These taxis are essential for accessing the airport and exploring the natural beauty and attractions of Lantau Island, such as the Big Buddha and Tai O fishing village. They are the primary, and often only, option for taxi services within these specific zones.

Key Differences and Overlapping Zones

The primary distinction lies in their main operating territories: Urban taxis cover the core city, New Territories taxis serve the northern districts, and Lantau taxis focus on the island. However, there are areas where services can overlap or where specific routes allow for cross-zone travel.

For instance, while red taxis are excluded from most of Lantau, blue taxis operate there exclusively. Green taxis have a broad mandate within the New Territories but are permitted to serve key transport links and destinations that extend beyond their core area, effectively connecting the New Territories to the airport and other major hubs.

Table: Permitted Operating Areas at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a red taxi take me to the New Territories?

Yes, a red taxi can pick up passengers in urban areas and drive them to the New Territories. However, a green taxi is generally the preferred and more economical option for journeys originating within the New Territories or travelling extensively within that region.

Can a green taxi operate in Hong Kong Island?

While green taxis are permitted to travel to and from specific locations like the airport and certain MTR stations which might be considered outside the core New Territories, they are generally restricted from picking up passengers within the primary urban areas (Hong Kong Island and Kowloon) for general hire. Their main operational base is the New Territories.

Can I get a taxi from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)?

Yes, you can get a taxi from HKIA. You will find blue taxis serving Lantau Island and the airport area, and green taxis are also permitted to pick up passengers from the airport's passenger terminals and ground transportation centre for specific routes, often connecting to the New Territories. Red taxis are generally not the primary option directly from the airport terminals for onward travel within the New Territories or Lantau.

Are there any restrictions on where Lantau taxis can go?

Lantau taxis (blue) are primarily restricted to Lantau Island and Chek Lap Kok. They cannot operate in the urban areas or the New Territories, except for specific points like the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port Public Transport Interchange.

What if I'm unsure which taxi to take?

When in doubt, look at the taxi's colour. If you are in the New Territories, a green taxi is your best bet. If you are on Lantau Island or at the airport, a blue taxi is the designated service. For most of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, red taxis are readily available. Taxi drivers are generally aware of their operating areas, but it's always good to have this knowledge to ensure a smooth journey.

The regulatory framework for taxi operating areas is stipulated in Schedule 7 to the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations, Chapter 374E. This ensures that each taxi type adheres to its designated service zones, contributing to an organised and efficient public transport network across Hong Kong.