“LONDON CALLING” – MAY 2014 REVIEW
It’s definitely a “head turner”, making people stop and stare in the street.
“Waiheke Black Cabs” motors around at 35MPH making a statement and definitely brings a hint of London to the island. Steve, the owner also part driver, is the “salt of the earth” kind of guy and when he said I could catch a ride in his 1971 cab…I couldn’t resist and leaped at the chance to blog his service for my couples.
The cab is in mint condition and even the interior is original with leather seats freshly polished. The cab even has the old traitmarks of a London cabbie with the authentic “fare table” and a sign saying “please sit well back in your seat for your safety and comfort”. However the best feature for me were the indicators and dashboard looking like it has come out of some old gangster movie. But don’t worry…Steve has made sure that mod-cons aren’t forgotten and has kitted the cab out with a sound system (so you can listen to those all-important tunes whilst being driven to your destination).
Sitting in the cab I couldn’t help but reminisce back to my London days and felt like I had found a bit of “HOME” here in little old New Zealand. Definitely a mode of transport I would have considered for my wedding on the island if it was around 5 years ago. The fact that Steve or one of his drivers get “suited and booted” in the “proper” London Chauffeur gear (flat hat and black suit) just finishes the whole experience off for me.
The black taxi has been gracing the Waiheke roads for only a year or so now and in that time they have been picking up brides, bridesmaids and fathers of the bride for their happy occasion. Seating 6 people in total, “Waiheke Black Cab’s” usual package is pick up, drive to the venue, ‘wait time’ until ceremony is finished and then a drive to have photos done. Three hours comes to $599 in total. Steve tells me if that package doesn’t suit…he is always open to negotiation and will try and accommodate people if needs be.
As well as the black cab, Steve also has a Rolls Royce on his books and accommodation for wedding couples or families. So check out www.waiheke.tv for all that Steve has to offer or just go direct to www.waihekeblackcab.co.nz or (+64) 9 3727510 or steve@waihekeblackcab.co.nz if you fancy having a little bit of London at your Waiheke wedding.
Just mention “Celebrants on Waiheke” to Steve and you will get an instant 5% discount on your booking.
Enjoy peeps. Until the next monthly blog don’t hesitate to contact me with any queries or questions.