The Transport Agency says it will actively seek taxi companies that avoid new security regulations by claiming to be private hire operators.
New legislative changes will require taxi companies to install approved camera systems, and operate a 24/7 monitoring service by 1 August.
Agency spokesperson Andy Knackstedt says some operators are changing to private hire, in an attempt to save money.
He says private hire services, such as limousines and wedding cars, cost an agreed amount, must not have for high signage and must be booked in advance; unlike taxis which work on a metered system.
One private hire prosecution already
Mr Knackstedt says the agency is willing to take action against those breaking the rules, and has already prosecuted Palmerston North man, Fred Hill, earlier this year on 10 charges relating to his company, Cabby for Hire.
Mr Hill was found guilty on nine charges, fined more than $6,500, and disqualified from driving for a month.
Transport Minister Steven Joyce says existing legislation is enough to deter taxi companies from falsely claiming to be private hire operators.
Mr Joyce says he doesn't believe any changes to legislation are required, as the Transport Agency is quite capable of dealing with operators breaking the law.
However, Taxi Federation executive director Tim Reddish has written to Mr Joyce, urging him to look at including security regulations for private hire operators as well.
Mr Reddish says compatible security measures over both services would eliminate any efforts to skirt the rules.
Green Cabs operations manager Charlie McLean is not worried by some taxi companies avoiding the new security regulations by claiming to be private hire operators.
Mr McLean says he doesn't believe those skirting the new regulations will damage his business as he thinks the public will soon realise the difference between a private hire service and a taxi.
He says he also has faith that the Transport Agency will catch those breaking the rules.
