Do You Need Child Car Seats for Taxis in New Zealand?

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From the dramatic landscapes of Queenstown to the family-friendly vibes of Wellington and the buzzing energy of Auckland, New Zealand is a dream destination for all ages. But before hopping into a cab with your children, many parents ask: Are child car seats required in New Zealand taxis?

Here’s what you need to know about getting around safely with kids in Aotearoa.

What the Law Says About Child Car Seats in New Zealand

New Zealand road safety laws state that children under 7 years old must be properly secured in an approved child restraint system, such as a car seat or booster. For children between 7 and 8 years, a restraint must be used if one is available.

But here’s where it gets tricky: taxis are legally exempt from providing or using car seats for children—unless parents bring their own. That means your child can legally ride unrestrained in a taxi, but experts strongly advise against it for safety reasons.

Do New Zealand Taxis Provide Car Seats?

In most cities and regions—including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown—standard taxis and ride-share vehicles do not carry child seats by default. Even at airports or major hotels, it’s extremely rare to find a taxi with a pre-installed seat unless it’s been booked in advance.

Some services may offer booster seats upon request, but infant and toddler seats are not commonly available unless organized ahead of time.

The Best Option: Pre-Book a Taxi With Child Car Seats

To keep your child safe and avoid last-minute stress, the most reliable choice is to pre-book a taxi with the correct car seat included.

At Taxibambino.com, we help families book child-friendly taxi services throughout New Zealand, including:

• Auckland

• Wellington

• Christchurch

• Queenstown

• Rotorua

You can choose from:

• Rear-facing infant capsules

• Forward-facing toddler car seats

• Booster seats for older children

All vehicles are arranged in advance with your selected car seat securely installed—so your child is safe from the moment the journey begins.

Renting a Car in New Zealand?

New Zealand is popular for self-drive holidays, and car rental agencies do offer child seats as an add-on. However, availability can vary, and you may need to install the seat yourself. Plus, driving in a new country—especially on winding rural roads—can be overwhelming.

For airport transfers, city travel, and shorter trips, booking a taxi with a child seat is a safer and easier alternative.

Family Travel Tips for New Zealand

• Book your child seat taxi early, especially during school holidays or tourist season

• Provide your child’s age and weight so the right seat can be installed

• Ask for air conditioning or heating depending on the season—it can vary widely

• Avoid street taxis if you need a car seat—they won’t have one unless pre-arranged

  
  

Safe, Scenic Travel for Families in New Zealand

New Zealand is packed with unforgettable sights and family-friendly adventures—but getting there safely matters just as much as the destination. Whether you’re heading to Hobbiton, the ski fields, or a lakeside lodge, don’t leave your child’s safety up to chance.

Visit Taxibambino.com to pre-book taxis with child car seats in New Zealand and explore Aotearoa confidently—every kilometre of the way.