27 Nov 2013

Taxi drivers quit meeting with airport company

8:18 pm on 27 November 2013

Auckland airport officials say they're not bowing to demands from angry taxi drivers, because the changes being sought could affect customers' transport choices.

A meeting between the two sides on Wednesday only lasted minutes, as the Auckland Taxi Association walked out when it became clear that most of its demands weren't going to be met.

Airport spokesperson Richard Barker says it won't move ranks or a shuttle bus, or increase the minimum taxi fare from $20 to $35 because customers would lose out.

The airport has agreed to spend $150,000 on improving facilities for waiting drivers.

Drivers say they are now considering ways to protest at the airport.

Taxi Association spokesperson Manmohan Dua says action will be taken but it won't be a predictable walkout and members' suggestions are being considered.