E-scooter operator Lime says it has robust sanitation measures in place as it returns to Auckland with more than 1300 red, 'Jump' branded e-scooters and e-bikes.
Jump branded e-scooters. Photo: Supplied
It says the handlebars, brakes, throttles and seats won't be sanitised between every rider, but on average two or three uses by a team of cleaners.
The rollout comes after Lime bought Jump's business from Uber and received operating permits from Auckland Council.
Its last fleet of e-scooters were removed from the street and deactivated in December, after the council opted to renew the permits for four other operators "with better safety profiles" instead.
Lime's old e-scooter branding. Photo: RNZ
Lime spokesperson Lauren Mentjox said the new e-scooters were built with a low centre of gravity, dual-braking and large wheels.
Each will come with its own helmet for riders and she said more safety initiative in coming days and weeks.
"We'll be announcing those as they are available and we'll also be inviting riders to take part in our 'First Ride' event which is a hands-on safety course where people can learn to ride in a safe environment," she said.
Mentjox said cleaning measures were in place, in line with Ministry of Health Alert Level 2.5 guidelines for preventing the spread of Covid-19.
"The risk of surface transmission is very low. We want to assure riders that micro-mobility is a safe, open-air form of transport. It's socially distanced by default and it's a great way to get around," she said.