$1k fine for refusing taxi fare

A taxi driver's decision to twice refuse a fare in central Auckland because the journey was too short has seen him cop a $1000 fine.

The incident occurred when two men asked the driver to transport them from Federal St in the central city to Karangahape Rd one afternoon in March.

The driver refused the two kilometre, uphill journey saying it would take four minutes to walk.

After the driver's initial refusal, the men rung his company and were told to get back in the taxi. The driver again refused the fare.

The men laid a formal complaint with NZTA after being refused a fare twice.

The driver received a $400 infringement from the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), but requested a court hearing.

He pleaded guilty in writing before being fined $1000 plus costs of $30.67 at the Auckland District Court.

NZTA regional manager Rick Barber said the investigation and court decision sent a clear message to taxi drivers that refusal of short trip fares will not be tolerated.

"It's not just a question of money, it's also an issue of providing a service," Barber said.

"Everyone should have confidence that they can hire a taxi so that they can get to their destination safely, no matter the length of that journey."

There are several reasons why drivers can refuse a fare - if they feel at risk of passengers and if passengers are intoxicated with alcohol or drugs.

The NZTA plans no further action against the driver, and he is able to continue to drive his taxi. 

- © Fairfax NZ News