On Sunday February 16 I booked a seat on train departing September 18 at 12.24am to Sydney to connect with flight to Auckland.

I phoned a taxi company and booked a taxi to pick me up at 11.30pm on September 17 and take me to Wauchope. I was quoted $72 fare to Wauchope station.

On arrival at the station I asked the river how much? He quoted $82.

I told the driver of the original quote and he stated there was a surcharge of 20 per cent.

I did not argue as I had to check in and my suitcase was still in the boot, I paid up.  

He did not give me a receipt.

On return from New Zealand I approached the taxi company and was informed the quote should have been an estimate and that on top of the $72 I was liable for the 20 per cent surcharge for after 10pm pick up and should there be any other delays, that is road works/accidents etc.  

The point is - at no time did the taxi company inform me of the extra charges.  So be wary when you book a taxi.

James Dove

Port Macquarie