Disabled drivers get more freedom with specialised rental vehicles

People with disabilities or injuries in the Bay of Plenty now have access to rental vehicles which cater to their individual needs.

ND Kiwi Tours have recently introduced a choice of specialised rental vehicles from its Katikati premises.

ND Kiwi Tours owner Kate Pfennig said they have “cars with hand controls that allow people with mobility issues to drive without their legs, to vans with wheelchair hoists which make it easy to transport relatives or friends in a wheelchair”.

“Everyone should have access to high quality, comfortable rental vehicles and it’s a privilege to be able to make the freedom of self-drive transport accessible to people with disabilities in our beautiful part of New Zealand.”

Ms Pfennig said this also provided more flexibility to people who need a wheelchair-friendly vehicle while they recover from accidents.

“It can be demoralising being stuck at home while recovering from injury. I’m hoping our service will allow anybody in that situation to maintain a sense of normality by continuing to drive whenever they want to.”

Manager of Disabled Persons Assembly NZ Chris Potts thought it was a fantastic opportunity for people with disabilities.

“I think up to now it’s been very limited.

“Previously people with disabilities would have to travel in a group. Now they can explore the area on their own terms,” said Ms Potts.

Ms Potts said it allows disabled people to be treated the same as every other citizen.

In some cases, drivers may be eligible for support from ACC to help cover the costs of rental vehicles during their recovery.