Uber Launches In Invercargill After Youth Push
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- Invercargill now has Uber, driven by youth-led ideas and community collaboration.
- Breaking Barriers project gave young Southlanders a voice in shaping transport solutions.
- New Uber service will improve access to jobs, education, and local mobility options.
Uber has officially launched in Invercargill, signalling a major boost to local transport access and community-led innovation. The move follows a youth-driven initiative from Te Rourou, One Aotearoa Foundation, which aimed to tackle transport issues faced by young people in Southland.
The Breaking Barriers Transport Project was designed with input from local youth, who shared their experiences and ideas during a series of co-design sessions. These hui were run by Ara Taiohi, the national body for youth development, and included young people, youth workers, and community leaders. The goal was to listen to the voices of rangatahi and place their leadership at the heart of the solution.
“This is what happens when we truly listen to rangatahi and back their vision,” said Mandy Smith, Community Catalyst at Te Rourou. “The community showed up, shared power, and together we co-created something impactful. Uber’s arrival isn’t just a business milestone—it’s a symbol of how system change can be youth-led and community-driven.”
The project received strong backing from organisations across the region, including the Southland Business Chamber, ILT, Great South, and Invercargill City Council. Their combined support helped attract Uber to the city. The Uber Driver app is now live in Invercargill and open for sign-ups, giving locals access to flexible earning options while also improving transport choices in the area.
Southland Business Chamber CEO Sheree Carey said: “This is an exciting moment for Invercargill. Uber’s arrival creates new pathways for employment, helps our young people get to work and training, and opens doors for greater connectivity—whether it’s locals getting to appointments or tourists exploring our beautiful region. It’s also a signal to other national players that Invercargill is a community of innovation and collaboration.”
To support the local launch, Uber will run an onboarding session on Thursday 3rd July at the Southland Business Chamber on Don Street. From 11am to 2pm, potential drivers can get help with registration and learn more about working with the platform.
The Breaking Barriers Transport Project is part of Te Rourou’s broader mission to break down systemic challenges faced by young people. With strong partnerships and a focus on lived experience, the project has proven that real change can happen when youth voices are put first.