Christchurch, Uber has landed

Taxi nemesis Uber has landed in Christchurch, and is offering Cantabrians free rides to reel them in.

Cantabrians will able to download the Uber app and request rides from wherever they are in the city, at any time.

As part of the launch, Uber is offering five free rides over the next two weeks.

Announcing the launch, Uber says, "Ridesharing will give local residents and visitors a new way to move around the city.

"In a city in the midst of being rebuilt, where many suburbs are underserved by public transport; and many more are only accessible by car or taxi, getting around hasn't been easy," the company says.

"In fact for most Cantabrians getting a bus isn't an option, and getting a taxi is simply unaffordable.

"As we have seen in 400 cities around the world, this will transform how Christchurch moves," Uber says.

"For suburbs like New Brighton, for example, ridesharing opens up exciting new possibilities for residents and visitors alike.

"Heading into the CBD for a meal or glass of wine is now an appealing option; commuters can choose whether to leave their car at home or share a ride; and small businesses can open up without worrying about their proximity to transport hubs or parking space.

Uber says the ability the push a button and get a ride in minutes is evolving the way our cities move, and in doing so having a positive impact on issues cities such as Christchurch have been grappling with for years.

Issues such as drink-driving; access to flexible work for those that need it; urban regeneration; and congestion.

"In a city rebuilding for a strong and sustainable future, we believe that ridesharing will be a positive for Cantabrians and the local economy and will contribute to making Christchurch a more livable, economically vibrant and better connected place to be.

We look forward to seeing you on the road!