Rideshare Driver (Uber / Ola)

Tax guide for New Zealand Uber, Ola, and rideshare driver contractors

Allowable Expenses

• Vehicle running costs — Fuel, servicing, tyres, registration, WOF
• Vehicle cleaning — Washes and detailing required for rideshare standards
• Phone data plan — Data used for rideshare app — business proportion
• In-car supplies — Water, mints, chargers for passengers — business expense
• Vehicle depreciation — Business proportion of vehicle depreciation

Tax Tips

• Rideshare income is subject to GST from the first dollar earned — register immediately
• Uber NZ and Ola are required to report payments — IR will know your income
• Vehicle cleaning costs for maintaining rideshare standards are deductible

Frequently Asked Questions

Do NZ Uber drivers need to register for GST?

Yes. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) are electronic marketplace transactions and are subject to GST from the first dollar. You must register for GST as a rideshare driver regardless of your annual turnover.