Ola officially Launches in New Zealand

Indian cab aggregator Ola has officially launched its cab services in new Zealand and will be initially available to passengers in Wellington, Christchurch, and Auckland.

New Zealand will be the Ola’s third international market and fourth globally including its home market of India.

Earlier this year the company launched its overseas services in the UK, and Australia.

To attract more customers in its newest market, the company is offering 50 percent discount on all rides for the first month. Ola said its services will also be available in Wellington and Auckland Airports.

The Bangalore-based unicorn had announced it would launch operations in New Zealand a few months ago.

The company said that customers in New Zealand can download the Ola app and register to book rides. The company also said driver partners joining the platform will get several benefits like low introductory commission rate of nine percent, as well as daily payments and 24/7 support.

According to media reports, Ola cabs in New Zealand will offer an in-app emergency button and include real-time vehicle tracking, location coordinates, and other emergency services. Every Ola vehicle is inspected to ensure it is roadworthy and every driver undertakes a police check,the company said.

Brian Dewil, New Zealand Country Manager for Ola said, “Entering New Zealand is an important step for Ola and the ridesharing industry here. Over recent weeks, we’ve received enthusiastic feedback from drivers across Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. With a reliable platform, an engaged, growing group of drivers and local staff in place, we’re excited to announce that Ola is now available to Kiwi passengers, giving them a fresh alternative to move about conveniently within our cities.”

Just like India, Australia, and the UK, Ola’s local competition will be Uber. In Australia, Ola operates in over seven cities and has over 50,000 registered drivers that have completed over 2 million rides since the launch.

Last year, the company, founded by Bhavish Agarwal and Ankit Bhati, had raised $1.2 billion in funding from existing investor SoftBank, and since the beginning of this year, has been expanding internationally.

Sometime back, Indian  media had reported that Ola has started making profits on each ride and was moving toward profitability.