According to Statistics New Zealand, in 2020, there were 16,100 taxis and other transport vehicle drivers employed in New Zealand. This includes drivers of taxis, shuttles, and other small passenger service operators. 

The Ministry of Transport reported that in 2018, road transport was responsible for approximately 19% of New Zealand's total greenhouse gas emissions, the fastest growing source of greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand. Within the transport sector, light passenger vehicles (including taxis and small passenger service operators) accounted for approximately 10% of total emissions. 

The small passenger service industry in New Zealand has undergone significant changes and growth specifically post 2017 when the national government further deregulated the industry introducing rideshare platforms such as Uber and Ola. This has led to a significant increase in the number of small passenger service license holders in the country.