From airport runs to weekend escapes, Uber is making it easier for Kiwis and visitors to travel with more. Today, Uber has announced the launch of Uber Big Boot – a new ride option designed for those needing extra space for luggage, gear, or shopping.

Rolling out across all 11 cities Uber currently operates in, including key tourism hotspots like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Napier, and Queenstown, Uber Big Boot connects riders with driver partners with SUVs and vans that offer 500L or more of boot space. It’s the first time Uber has introduced this service in APAC and New Zealand is leading the way.

“Uber Big Boot is all about making travel simpler and more convenient. Whether it’s families heading to the airport, friends off on a weekend ski trip, or locals with bulky bags or sports gear, this new ride option aims to help Kiwis get from A to B easier” said Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia and New Zealand.

“New Zealand’s travel needs are unique and getting around often means bringing extra gear and the need for a larger boot space. We’re proud to offer a solution that reflects how Kiwis and visitors travel – providing more boot space, more flexibility, and a smoother experience for every kind of journey.”

As tourism picks up to pre-pandemic levels, Uber has been investing in improvements to help enhance the experience for both riders and driver partners, from expanding kerbside pickup zones at major airports like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, to introducing new services for travellers on the go like Uber Rent.

In 2024, travellers took more than 2.8 million Uber trips to and from airports across New Zealand, reflecting the growing demand for reliable transport during busy travel periods. According to Uber’s latest Economic Impact Report, this activity contributed an estimated NZ$67 million in additional tourism spending, helping connect visitors with local destinations and communities across the country.

The launch of Uber Big Boot reflects Uber’s commitment to supporting New Zealand’s tourism sector while creating additional earning opportunities for driver partners. It is designed to make travel simpler, more flexible and more accessible for visitors to explore the best of Aotearoa, deliver a better experience for travellers moving through airports in New Zealand, and make it easier for Kiwis to set off on their next adventure.

For driver partners, the launch of Uber Big Boot opens up fresh opportunities to increase their earnings by tapping into a growing demand from travellers and locals needing extra space on the road. Eligible driver partners will be automatically opted in, giving them the flexibility to access a new stream of trips or opt out if they choose.

Uber Big Boot will launch in 11 cities nationwide, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin, Palmerston North, Napier-Hastings, Queenstown, Tauranga, New Plymouth, and Nelson. During the initial launch, the availability of Uber Big Boot may vary due to limited vehicles.