Lori Meadows
International students in New Zealand are often keen to explore the country's breathtaking fjords, majestic mountains, and pristine beaches. One way to facilitate this is by driving for Uber. However, it is unclear whether international students are legally permitted to do so. This raises several questions: what are the requirements to drive for Uber in New Zealand? Do international students on a visa qualify? What alternative transport options are available for international students in New Zealand?
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| Can international students drive Uber in New Zealand? | Unable to find the latest information |
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What You'll Learn
Uber's driver requirements in New Zealand
To drive for Uber in New Zealand, you must meet the minimum age requirement to drive in your city and have an eligible mode of transportation. You will also need to submit the required documents, including a valid driver's licence.
If you do not hold your own Small Passenger Service Licence (SPSL), you must use Logmate to record your work time. This is a requirement to become active on the Uber driver app. Uber will provide you with a TSL Label if you meet the requirements to drive on the app.
In addition, you will need to obtain a Passenger (P) Endorsement from the New Zealand Transit Authority (NZTA). The NZTA may also require you to provide additional documents, such as proof of your entitlement to work in New Zealand or an International criminal history check as part of the P Endorsement application process. Once you receive your P Endorsement, upload an image of it to your Uber account.
Finally, the NZTA requires drivers using the Uber app to apply for a Certificate of Fitness with Uber's TSL number.
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International student visa work restrictions
International students in New Zealand may be allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) and full-time during scheduled holidays, depending on their visa conditions. Students can check their visa or visa sticker in their passport to see if they are allowed to work.
If practical experience is a requirement of the course, a student visa with conditions that allow the student to work to complete it will be granted. Students with an English language course may work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) with a valid student visa and if their course meets certain conditions, such as having an acceptable English language test result that is no more than 2 years old.
Students enrolled in a Research Masters or doctoral degree programme (PhD) awarded by a New Zealand tertiary institution have no restrictions on working hours. However, they must continue studying full-time, and their education provider must agree to a suspension of studies.
International students are not allowed to be self-employed and must work for an employer with an employment agreement. Working when your visa does not allow you to work is a breach of your visa conditions and may result in having to leave the country.
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Cost of living for international students
The cost of living for international students in New Zealand varies depending on location and spending habits. Students should estimate their costs before settling in the country to study.
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in New Zealand depends on the city. In Auckland and Wellington, one-bedroom apartments can cost NZD 1,200–1,800 per month. In smaller cities or towns, rents may range from NZD 800–1,200. On-campus accommodation is more affordable than off-campus options.
Transportation
Public transport, such as buses, is a prevalent and efficient way to get around New Zealand. Public transportation costs around NZD 2.50–5 per trip in most cities, with monthly travel cards available for NZD 100–150. International students should also be sure to check for discounts on transport.
Utilities
Utilities typically range from NZD 150 to NZD 250 per month. This covers electricity, water, gas, and the internet. Utilities may be included in the rent in some student accommodations.
Food
The food cost can be different for each person according to their choice of food items and the habit of eating out. A normal meal can cost around NZD 25–50. According to Stats NZ Tauranga Aotearoa figures, food prices in New Zealand are 6.0% higher than a year ago.
Health Insurance
International students have to pay health insurance and a visa fee when they apply for a student visa. Health insurance costs in New Zealand are $2,080 for a year.
Other Costs
The internet and phones will play a significant role in the life of international students. The monthly cost of the internet will vary widely based on connection type, speed, location, household, and provider. The average phone bill in New Zealand is NZ$29 per month. Clothing is another expense, with an average cost of NZD 161 per month.
Overall, the living costs for international students in New Zealand range between $20,000 and $25,000 for a 1-year average or NZD 380–480 per week.
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Driving laws for international students
If you're an international student in New Zealand, there are a few things you need to know about driving. Here are the essential rules and regulations to keep in mind:
Driver's Licence: As an international student, you can drive in New Zealand with your valid foreign driver's licence for up to 12 months from when you arrive, or until your licence expires, whichever comes first. After this period, you will need to apply for a New Zealand driver's licence.
Age Requirements: You must be at least 16 years old to drive in New Zealand, but please note that some rental car companies require drivers to be at least 20 or 21 years old to rent a vehicle.
Road Rules and Safety: New Zealand has strict road rules and a zero-tolerance approach to drink-driving and driving under the influence of drugs. Always drive on the left-hand side of the road, obey speed limits, and be aware of unique road rules.
Insurance and Vehicle Registration: If you own a vehicle, ensure it is registered and has a current Warrant of Fitness (WoF). It is also essential to have appropriate insurance coverage. New Zealand has a 'no-fault' accident compensation scheme, which may impact your ability to claim compensation in the event of an accident.
Riding Services and Uber: International students are allowed to drive for ride-sharing services such as Uber, as long as they meet the company's requirements and have the right to work in New Zealand. This can be a great way to earn an income while studying, as New Zealand allows students on visas to work part-time.
Driving Culture: New Zealand has a unique driving culture with a strong emphasis on courtesy and patience. Be prepared for winding roads, single-lane bridges, and sharing the road with cyclists and slower vehicles. Always carry a map or use a GPS to navigate, especially in rural areas.
Remember to always carry your driver's licence, vehicle registration, and insurance documents when driving in New Zealand. By following these driving laws and staying vigilant on the road, you'll be able to safely explore the beautiful landscapes that the country has to offer.
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Uber alternatives in New Zealand
As of October 2024, Uber has competitors in New Zealand, including a local company called Zoomy. Zoomy co-founder James Fisk claims that his company treats drivers better than Uber, allowing them to earn more and "fairly reward [ing] the drivers by making sure they get paid fairly". Zoomy also provides customers with "affordable, predictable, safe rides". The company claims to have 2,000 taxis across New Zealand, with nationwide coverage from Whangarei to Invercargill. All taxis have security cameras, and drivers are professional, fully licensed, insured, and pass stringent background checks. The app provides an accurate fare estimate before you travel.
Another alternative to Uber in New Zealand is YourRide, which also offers a taxi-booking app.
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