E-scooter exemption extended

Fans of e-mobility options in our cities will be pleased with Waka Kotahi’s decision to extend the legal exemption that allows them to be used without being classified as motor vehicles for five more years.

The declaration, which exempts these two-wheelers with a maximum power output of 300 watts, was first introduced in September 2018 for a period of five years.

It means e-scooters aren’t required to meet motor-vehicle standards or be registered when used. In practice, this means riders don’t need to have a driver licence, they don’t need to have number plates on them and they can be used in different spaces, including on footpaths.

Chris Rodley, the transport agency’s manager of regulatory system design, says the decision to extend has been made following a thorough review, including engagement with key stakeholders and an online public survey.

“Our overall conclusion is that e-scooters have made and continue to make a useful contribution to the land-transport system,” he adds. “Their use is increasing across New Zealand, they are increasingly used for transport rather than just recreation, user satisfaction is generally high and they have emissions reductions benefits.” 

Rodley acknowledges concerns about the safety of e-scooter use, which were raised during the review. “While the greatest risk is to riders themselves, some pedestrians also feel anxious or stressed about sharing footpaths with e-scooters. 

“While there are mechanisms in place to ensure the safe use of e-scooters, such as geofenced no-go and low-speed zones for rentals, Waka Kotahi believes there is scope for further improvements, such as lower speed limits in high pedestrian areas and more use of speed-limit signage. 

“Over the next five years we will continue to explore these and other measures to promote the safe and responsible use of e-scooters.

“These improvements will be progressed between multiple parties, including Waka Kotahi, local authorities, share-scheme e-scooter operators, the Ministry of Transport, police and others.” 

More information about the decision and review can be found online at www.nzta.govt.nz/escooter-declaration.