Since Uber arrived in New Zealand a decade ago, we’ve been on a mission to make getting around as convenient as possible for Kiwis. While many embrace the simple tap of a button to book a ride, we understand that using an app isn’t every Kiwi’s preference. 

In fact, 77% of Kiwis aged 65+ say when making a booking they prefer to speak to a person versus an automated service, with over one in three (36%) admitting to not feeling confident booking a service via a mobile app*. 

As part of Uber New Zealand’s commitment to helping more Kiwis go anywhere by offering more ways to ride with Uber, we’re proud to announce a new phone line booking service, which will be available in every Kiwi town and city where Uber operates, from today. 

The new phone line service allows Kiwis to book their next trip to the grocery store or see their loved ones, simply by dialling 0800-GO-UBER (0800-46-8237). The call will connect riders to an Uber team member who will assist them in booking a ride, with the phone line available 24/7.

Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber ANZ said: “At Uber, we want to offer all Kiwis transport that is convenient and accessible. We understand that for some, particularly older Kiwis, smartphones can be challenging to navigate or they don’t have access to one. In response, we are thrilled to now offer all Kiwis access to phone assistance when they want to book an Uber ride. 

“With 0800 GO UBER, we can help to ensure that every rider’s Uber experience is as effortless as possible. This feature brings the convenience of live support to our matching technology, so every Kiwi can now book a ride the way that they want.” 

How it works

  1. Rider calls 0800 GO UBER (0800-46-8237) and requests to book a ride. Rides can either be booked for that current moment (on-demand) or for 30 minutes to 90 days ahead of time via Uber Reserve
  2. For those calling without an Uber account, dispatchers will set one up for the caller over the phone to provide access to the service
  3. Phone line is only functional for those wanting to book a ride. Customers who are calling with a customer service issue will be diverted to the help section in the app. (Except for riders who booked through 0800 GO UBER (0800-46-8237)
  4. Once your trip has been confirmed, we’ll send you information via text message about your ride, including your driver’s name and picture, licence plate number, and their estimated time of arrival. You’ll receive another text message when your driver arrives at your pickup location. 
  5. All trips are GPS tracked and it works exactly as it does when booking via the app, meaning riders will have access to Uber’s full suite of safety features if they have the app downloaded. 

Other information:

  • 0800 GO UBER trips will be bookable in every area that Uber operates in from the 28 May 2024
  • Riders will have the choice of booking an UberX, Green, Comfort,Pet, and Assist trip where the product is available in that area.
  • The phone line will be available 24/7

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*Research from an independent online study conducted by YouGov New Zealand on behalf of Uber, between 26th-28th March 2024. The sample comprised 1,020 New Zealanders. The findings have been weighted by gender, age and region, and the sample is representative of the New Zealand population 18+ years.