Taxpayers’ Union Questions NZTA’S Crackdown on Staff Uber Use
2 OCTOBER 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Taxpayers’ Union is questioning the rationale behind NZTA’s crackdown on their staff’s use of Uber, saying that curtailing unnecessary expenses should be encouraged, not condemned.

The Weekend Herald reported that a "travelling for work" policy was distributed to NZTA staff, ordering them to keep clear of Uber while on agency business. Staff are not allowed to use agency credit cards or expenses to finance trips on Uber, amongst other restrictions.

Taxpayers’ Union researcher, Matthew Rhodes, says:

“It is beyond belief that NZTA is punishing the taxpayer with inflated transport expenses. It is common knowledge that the Uber system is a cheaper and more efficient way to get around than taxis. NZTA staff are obviously willing to use the service to cut costs for their organisation, but are being dragged down by their superiors.”

“If this was any other private organisation looking to cut costs, the use of Uber to curb transport expenses would be an obvious remedy, but since it is public money being tossed around, NZTA are willing to take the more expensive option at the taxpayers’ expense, and for the benefit of a weak policy point.”

“If the NZTA wanted to be serious about condemning Uber for not obtaining P-endorsements for some drivers, they would be more vigilant in cracking down on those who don’t comply. Banning NZTA staff from using the service is not a measure that will have an impact on the corporation.”
ENDS

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