Uber Rolls Into Whakatāne

Uber has launched in Whakatāne this week as part of a regional expansion.

The company began operating in Whakatāne on Tuesday, adding it to a list of seven new locations across the country, including Wānaka, Levin, Tokoroa, Ashburton, Hāwera and Oamaru.

Services are also expanding on Waiheke Island.

Uber said the rollout means more than 350,000 New Zealanders across 27 towns and cities can now access its app.

Australia and New Zealand Uber Managing Director, Emma Foley. IMAGE // Uber

Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, Emma Foley, said the move aims to improve transport options in regional communities.

“We know that in regional towns, being able to get a ride on demand can make a huge difference in staying connected to friends, family and local businesses,” she said.

The service enables users to book trips through the app, featuring upfront pricing, GPS tracking, and the ability to share trip details in real-time.

Uber said its arrival could support local businesses by making it easier for residents and visitors to travel around the area, particularly for events, appointments and hospitality.

The company also pointed to broader economic contributions, citing an estimated $1.5 billion impact in New Zealand in 2024, including tourism spending and flexible work opportunities.

The expansion opens up new earning options for locals, who can sign up as driver-partners and choose their own hours.

Safety features include driver screening and authorisation requirements, optional PIN verification before entering a vehicle, GPS tracking during trips, and post-ride feedback systems.

Uber launched in New Zealand in 2014 and said more than two million people have used its services, collectively travelling hundreds of millions of kilometres.