Where to buy

You may find mobility scooters in motorcycle or bike shops but most are sold directly by distributors. Look in the Yellow Pages under "Mobility scooters".

Expect to pay between $2000 and $7000 for a new scooter depending on the model. Expensive models will have more features and be more powerful.

Most suppliers sell several models. Talk through with them what you want and ask them to visit your home to assess your needs. If they don't seem to have enough expertise, find another distributor that does or ask an occupational therapist from your local hospital for help.

Some distributors also sell second-hand scooters. These may be good buys especially if you are only travelling short distances. Get the scooter checked by a service agent before you buy it and make sure that spare parts are available if you need them. Treat buying a second-hand scooter as you would a second-hand car.

Trade & Exchange and the TradeMe website often have second-hand scooters for sale. But before you buy one, check the Personal Property Securities Register to see if any money is owing on it. Searches can be done online and cost $3.

You can also contact your local Age Concern or Disability Information Service for more information.

Financial help

The New Zealand Lottery Grants Board makes grants to cover the purchase price of a mobility scooter, subject to assessment. About 250 grants are given each year. They may cover the full cost, depending on the model. Grants aren't fully means-tested but your financial circumstances may be taken into account when priority for funding is assessed. You are only eligible for a grant if your disability is permanent and due to a degenerative condition (eg, a stroke or multiple sclerosis), not if your disability is due to an accident or injury.

ACC may be able to assist with funding if you have suffered a personal injury and a mobility scooter is the best way of meeting the injury-related needs. Work and Income (WINZ) do not provide assistance.