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Mobility Scooters are designed for people who have some mobility but find it challenging to walk for any length of time or distance. There is a wide range of mobility scooters available in New Zealand and it’s important that if you are looking to purchase one, you find one that meets your specific needs – as one size doesn’t fit all!
Once you have determined what is important to you, you can refer to the three groups below to determine which size range of scooters best suits your needs. Read more about each individual scooter listed below on our website by clicking on the product name. Once you have one or two specific scooters in mind, you can start shopping around in your local area or even online. We strongly recommend purchasing a scooter from a stockist that also has the availability to service and maintain your scooter.
While there are lots of second hand scooters available on the likes of TradeMe – be aware that many of these may come with batteries that require replacing soon after purchase and it is often difficult to tell how much wear the scooter has had.
A Small Mobility Scooter offers manoeuvrability and convenience, making it an ideal solution for indoor use and transportation.
Small Mobility Scooters have a smaller turning circle, which makes navigating around in a confined space, such as a crowded shopping centre, easier. Many of the models in this category can fold down or are easily dismantled so you can put them in the car.
The trade-off is that a smaller size means a smaller battery and less range per charge – usually only up to about 20 km. They also have smaller wheels which can make them less steady on uneven ground and they can lack the power needed to get up steep hills.
View Small Mobility Scooters >
Mid-Sized Mobility Scooters give you the ease of use of a smaller scooter with the extra power to tackle small inclines and outdoor terrain. This is an ideal option if you plan to make a lot of trips locally, like to the shops or a friend’s house nearby.
These may also be the best option if you intend to use your scooter on public transport. While restrictions vary, you’ll generally be able to take your mobility scooter on any public transport that’s also wheelchair accessible.
Features you may find in these models include:
View Mid-Sized Mobility Scooters
Heavy duty or large scooters are better suited to handling difficult terrain and long distances. The pneumatic rubber wheels and suspension allow for a smoother ride. Models in this range also tend to have more supportive seats, including padded arm rests and headrests.
They are also better for people who are larger in stature – especially those with longer legs.
Features you may find in these models
View Heavy Duty / Large Sized Mobility Scooters
For more information please refer to the FAQ’s below or email helpis@alliedmedical.co.nz.
Each scooter has a clear list of the manufacturer’s specifications. Make sure that you compare weight capacities for each scooter you are considering. You also need to consider the overall length of the scooter based on your height. If your height is less than 5’5”, you should consider scooters that have an overall length of 1050 mm. If you are taller than 5’5”, it’s likely you’ll need more leg room so look for larger models that will ensure a comfortable ride.
Absolutely – like a car, you need to know how each possible option feels like to drive. All reputable dealers will offer a no obligation trial at your home, which allows you to test drive it in the environment that you will be using it in. Another option is to visit your local shopping mall and try one of the rental ones that they have available.
When testing different models make sure that the controls are easy to see, reach, grip and use for long periods.
Like a car, we suggest regular maintenance between every six to twelve months, depending on how often you use your scooter and how far you drive it. Batteries and tyres are the two parts that do need replacing. Specific replacement timeframes for these depend on how much the scooter is used and if it is charged regularly whilst following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Each scooter comes with a battery charger that plugs into the electrical socket in the wall and then plugs into a charging point on the scooter. It is very easy to do - just ask to be shown this as part of your scooter demonstration.
There are a number of scooters that can easily fold up or disassemble for transport – either in a car or to take on a plane. Generally these are a smaller style of scooter which may not be suitable if you are a larger person.
Please see the table below, which outlines some advantages of using a powerchair or scooter.
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Advantages of powerchairs |
Advantages of mobility scooters |
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Are more compact |
Tiller provides stability |
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Have a smaller turning radius so are easier to manoeuvre in small spaces |
Have more capacity to carry more items such as groceries |
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Mid wheel drive powerchairs turn on their own radius so allow the user to get very close to spaces like the table or kitchen bench |
Can feel more stable |
|
Can be driven with very limited strength and hand function |
Easier to immobilise (lock) if you want to leave it outside a shop/house while not in use |
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Have built in capacity to traverse obstacles and rougher surfaces |
Smaller scooters are easily transportable and easier to dissemble than a powerchair |
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Can be driven with just one hand |
Generally lower cost |
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Can be more easily configured, including different programming, to better suit an individual’s needs |
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No - you don’t need to have a license to drive a scooter and in fact it is really common for many people to start using scooters when they lose their license due to old age or ill health. It is important to ensure you are driving safely and if you have visual, perceptual or learning difficulties, you should seek medical advice before considering purchasing a scooter.
You can apply to the Lotteries Grant Scheme for Individuals with Disabilities to request a grant to purchase a mobility scooter (or powerchair). These fixed amount grants can then be used to purchase a mobility scooter of your choice. Click here to go to the Lotteries website where you can complete the form. Our dealers are also very familiar with this form and will be able to assist you in completing it in case you get stuck.
Scooters are not generally designed to be taken off road or to the beach. Sand, water and excessive mud have the potential to damage the motors and gears and also will void any warranties.
Also be aware that slopes, kerbs and rough ground can make your scooter unstable. Make sure you know what it can handle and also be aware of how well balanced you are when driving.
We recommend all Mobility Scooter users have an AA Roadside Assist membership or equivalent. This ensures that if something goes wrong, one of their team (or a subcontractor) will get you and your scooter home safely.
A final word of advice – once you have purchased a scooter, make sure that you get it insured to cover it against theft, accidents and third-party claims. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
We hold stock of commonly used batteries. Please email helpis@alliedmedical.co.nz or call 0800 31 61 31 with the battery type you need along with the mobility scooter model and one of our team will be able to advise price and stock availability. If we are unable to supply the required battery you can also contact Battery Town, a nationwide supplier of batteries for our scooter range.
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