New Year's Eve revellers should brace themselves for a hefty fare if they book a ride home using the smartphone-based private driver service Uber tonight.
New year fireworks at the Auckland Sky Tower Photo: RNZ / Todd Niall
The company said fares were expected to surge by up to three times the normal price as supply outstripped demand and Uber's dynamic pricing matrix kicked in.
Uber described the matrix as a mechanism for attracting more drivers to an area.
Data from previous years showed demand on New Year's Day peaked between 12.30am and 4am.
The company said party-goers who wanted to avoid paying higher fares should book an Uber driver by one minute to midnight and lock it in before the rush, or share a ride with friends.
Meanwhile, Auckland police said they would be on the lookout for disorderly conduct and drink-driving at New Year's Eve celebrations tonight.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to head to the central city to watch the fireworks marking the new year.
District commander Danny Meade said more than 100 police staff would be on duty to make sure everyone is safe.
"We anticipate that there will be high numbers of people in the CBD, and that the whole of the waterfront area, for instance, is going to be utilised as an entertainment district. There will be an increased level of alcohol consumption which can lead to instances or disorder and violence. So we have a group of staff who will be dedicated to ensuring we keep that sort of thing to minimum."
