Uber is being accused of a lack of empathy for its drivers by closing down a hub for them in Christchurch.
Photo: 123 RF
The ride sharing scheme has proved popular with the public but has been criticised by some drivers for its low rates which make it hard for them to earn a living.
Now it is planning to close a hub in Christchurch designed to help drivers with paperwork or to deal with problems with passengers.
In a short statement a company spokesperson said from the end of January the hub would be replaced by a phone service.
"We understand a handful of Christchurch-based partners are upset about this decision but believe 24/7 phone support will offer a better experience for all in the longer-term."
A driver who has asked not to be named said non-native English speakers could struggle.
"One of our driver partners, she's Asian, and she hasn't got very good English. She had somebody act inappropriately towards her and she didn't know how to go about complaining and she should be able to go somewhere and have a sit down and talk this out."