Alexandra's New Taxi Service

In a move set to significantly improve local accessibility, Connie Crosbie, owner of Central Wine Tours, has stepped in to establish a much-needed taxi-like service in Alexandra and the surrounding Central Otago region. This initiative arises directly from a critical identified lack of transport services, which has left many residents struggling to reach essential facilities like medical appointments, supermarkets, and the local hospital. The closure of Alexandra's sole taxi service earlier this year, coupled with a similar closure in Cromwell, had created a considerable void in public transportation, prompting concern from local social service groups.

Addressing a Critical Need

The impetus for Connie Crosbie's new venture was a stark realisation of the difficulties faced by many in the community. "I was prompted to start the service when I learnt how difficult it was for some residents to travel for basic needs," Mrs. Crosbie explained. This sentiment was echoed by the Alexandra Council of Social Services. Chairwoman Deirdre Jolly, along with two other members, had actively been seeking solutions to help those unable to manage their own travel. "I'm delighted. That's exactly what we want," Mrs. Jolly stated, expressing her enthusiasm for the new service. "I'm sure the elderly people in particular will be grateful there is a taxi-like service again." This highlights the profound impact the service is expected to have, particularly on the elderly population who often rely on such assistance for their daily lives.

The Service and Its Offerings

Connie Crosbie plans to utilise her existing fleet, which includes a nine-seater van and a four-seater car, to operate the new service. This dual capacity allows for flexibility, catering to both individual needs and group transportation requirements. "There was also a lack of transport services for people wanting to be driven in groups, to or from functions, or on shopping trips, for example," Mrs. Crosbie noted, underscoring the multifaceted demand this service aims to meet. The business will function much like a traditional taxi service, with clients needing to contact Mrs. Crosbie to book a trip. Fares are expected to be competitive, either mirroring those of the previous Alexandra service or being subject to negotiation, providing a degree of financial flexibility for customers.

Operational Flexibility and Limitations

Mrs. Crosbie has outlined a practical approach to her operational hours. She will be available and on-call between 8:30 am and 5 pm during the week, offering a reliable window for bookings. However, she also expressed a need for advance notice for trips outside these standard hours. "If someone wants me to drive them outside those hours it can be pre-arranged, as long as I have some time to organise it," she stated. This is a crucial point for potential users to understand, as last-minute requests outside of the primary operating times may not be feasible. "I'm happy to take people to Wanaka, Queenstown, Omakau, and even Dunedin, for example, or just to the supermarket, hospital, doctor, or library," she added, demonstrating the broad geographical reach and diverse service offerings. A key constraint for the service, as it currently stands, is its inability to be hailed from the roadside. This is due to Mrs. Crosbie awaiting her transport service and passenger service licences, which are necessary to legally accept payment for carrying passengers. Until these licences are secured, the service operates under a 'private car hire' model, requiring pre-booking.

Future Expansion and Licensing

The potential for growth is significant, and Mrs. Crosbie is open to formalising her operation into a fully licensed taxi service should demand justify the process. "She will consider going through a legal process to expand her 'private car hire' business into a formal taxi service, if demand warrants it," the report states. This future expansion would allow the service to operate 24 hours a day and be hailed by potential clients, significantly increasing its availability. A notable benefit for users, particularly the elderly, is the ability to accept mobility vouchers. These vouchers, subsidised by the Otago Regional Council, allow clients to pay a reduced fare, with the council reimbursing the driver for the remaining cost. This makes the service more affordable and accessible for those who need it most.

Comparison with Other Services

It's worth noting the parallel situation in Cromwell, which has also seen its sole taxi service cease operations. This suggests a broader trend of transport challenges in the region, making Mrs. Crosbie's initiative all the more vital. While Auckland Shuttles offers a much wider geographical coverage, servicing numerous regions across New Zealand, Connie Crosbie's service is specifically tailored to the immediate needs of Alexandra and Central Otago. This local focus ensures a more personalised and responsive service for the community she serves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why did Connie Crosbie start a taxi service in Alexandra?
Connie Crosbie started the service due to a significant lack of transport options in and around Alexandra, following the closure of the town's only taxi service. She recognised the difficulties residents faced in accessing essential facilities.

Q2: What types of vehicles will be used for the service?
Mrs. Crosbie plans to use a nine-seater van and a four-seater car.

Q3: What are the operating hours for the service?
The service is generally available between 8:30 am and 5 pm on weekdays. Trips outside these hours can be pre-arranged with sufficient notice.

Q4: Can I hail the taxi from the street?
No, not at this stage. The service requires pre-booking as Mrs. Crosbie is awaiting her official taxi and passenger service licences.

Q5: Will the service accept mobility vouchers?
Yes, the service will be able to accept mobility vouchers subsidised by the Otago Regional Council, making it more affordable for eligible users.

Q6: What areas does the service cover?
The service covers Alexandra and the surrounding Central Otago region, with the flexibility to travel to nearby towns like Wanaka and Queenstown, and even further afield to Dunedin for pre-arranged trips.

Conclusion

Connie Crosbie's new taxi-like service represents a vital lifeline for the Alexandra community. By addressing a clear gap in local transport and offering a flexible, customer-focused approach, Mrs. Crosbie is not only supporting residents in accessing essential services but also demonstrating the positive impact that entrepreneurial spirit can have on community well-being. The anticipation for her official licensing and the potential expansion of her services underscores the significant demand and appreciation for this much-needed local transport solution.