Bolt launching here should drive down ride-hailing prices

One of Europe’s leading mobility platforms, Bolt, has entered the New Zealand market. Kicking things off in Auckland, it is promising better deals both for drivers and riders.

Bolt operates in over 600 cities across 50 countries. Its expansion into New Zealand marks a significant step in providing greater competition to the ride hailing market here. That’s after Ola’s 2024 withdrawal from the local market.

Adam Muirson, Bolt New Zealand General Manager says the New Zealand’s ride-hailing market has had limited options for too long. 

“Bolt introduces real competition and a smarter alternative to owning a car to help Kiwis move around cities more affordably, efficiently and with greater choice.”

Bolt puts drivers at the centre of its model, offering flexible schedules, 24/7 local support and a competitive commission structure to boost earnings. In turn, customers benefit from lower prices and better service. 

Despite having the highest car ownership rate globally, rising parking costs, and growing congestion are making Kiwis consider the alternatives. 

In Auckland, congestion and parking hassles make ride-hailing services increasingly relevant for city living. 

This is especially true as more young people put off obtaining a driver’s licence, and have other options at their fingertips.

Bolt aims to help build cities for people, not cars. For decades, cities have been built for cars, not people, leading to traffic congestion, pollution and dangers for bike riders. Ride-hailing provides another convenient and accessible way to move around a city. 

The Bolt app was built with rider and driver safety as a top priority. It uses a dedicated in-house safety team. 

Along with standard safety measures, Bolt will equip users with an extensive suite of safety features. Included are sharing location, so others can track the ride live, and ride/driver unmatching after any one-star trips.