Village-based taxi services are encouraged to consider adopting a cooperative model as part of broader efforts to develop the transport sector.
Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau stated this while commissioning the new water project at Nakini, Naitasiri and responding to concerns raised regarding taxi permits for rural communities.
Ro Filipe noted that while the permits are currently under a freeze period, the government is actively reviewing legislation related to permit sales, which has been a contentious issue.
He says stakeholder engagement is underway to find resolutions, and discussions will resume once these issues are addressed.
He says the initiative aligns with the government's strategy to diversify livelihoods and income sources for communities. Ro Filipe adds the goal is to enhance the well-being of the community by not only granting market access but also by providing essential infrastructure support such as better roads.
