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Source: ONE News
The Commerce Commission says complaints regarding new arrangements for taxis and shuttles at Wellington International Airport are unlikely to breach the Commerce Act.
The Commission received complaints after the airport changed the layout for its taxi and shuttle forecourt, including awarding dedicated taxi spaces immediately outside the terminal doors and an exclusive provider arrangement for non-booked shuttle services.
Complainants alleged that there was an unfair competitive advantage with Wellington Combined Taxis holding the prime spot outside the terminal doors.
And they claimed an exclusive contract with Super Shuttles cut out other providers.
But the Commission concluded neither arrangement was likely to breach the Commerce Act.
It said consumers still have a choice of taxi companies and can simply walk past the Wellington Combined Taxi rank if they wish.
"Legitimate efficiency gains and improved customer service have also been identified as reasons for the exclusive shuttle arrangement," said Commerce Commission spokesperson Kate Morrison.
Wellington Combined Taxis managing director Kevin Braid said his company simply won a completely legitimate tendering process. He said all the new arrangement does is change the areas of waiting.
But Ace Taxis is disappointed the commission found no problems with the new taxi arrangement at the airport.
Spokeswoman Fa'atapu Sasa said there is no choice for people because they can hardly see the other taxi companies which have to park further away.
