Custom-built taxis studied

Press, 1 September 1977, Page 13

Custom-built taxis studied

Custom-built taxi cabs that could qualify for a remission or reduction tn sales tax are being investigated by the New Zealand Taxi Proprietors’ Federation.

The president, Mr J. S. Bryant (Papatoetoe), told the federation’s conference in New Plymouth that a diesel-powered custombuilt taxi available on hire-purchase would be well within the reach of most taxi operators.

Members were looking at the Datsun diesel 260 and had talked to other motor companies about custom-built cabs.

“We have given a general specification for a New Zealand taxi pack to some of the motor companies and they are studying the practicalities and

feasibility of introducing our requirements into their standard models," Mr Bryant said.

The federation appreciated the efforts of Ministers and M.P.s in obtaining some relaxation of hire-purchase regulations and must be far-sighted enough to recognise the concession and the ultimate benefit to the industry. The industry had been in the public eye after the tragic death of Christchurch taxi driver, Mr Wallv Chisnail.

“The complacency and self-satisfaction which had crept into most drivers’ attitudes soon gave way to unity of thought and concentration on the very real problem of driver safety,” he said.