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Choosing a mobility aid is a big decision. The right one can make everyday life easier, from getting around the house to heading to the shops or visiting family. This guide walks through the main options available in New Zealand and the questions to ask before you buy.
1. Manual, electric or scooter: which type do you need?
Self-propelled (manual) wheelchairs
A folding self-propelled wheelchair is light, affordable and easy to fold into a car boot. It suits people who have good upper body strength, or who will usually be pushed by a carer. Look for brakes on both sides, a padded seat and removable footrests.
Electric wheelchairs
An electric wheelchair is ideal if pushing yourself is tiring or not possible. Modern foldable models use lightweight aluminium frames and lithium batteries, and are driven with a simple joystick. Some, like our electric wheelchairs with remote control, also let a carer steer from behind.
Mobility scooters
A mobility scooter is best for people who can walk short distances and sit upright comfortably, but want to travel further, for example to the local shops or a park. Four-wheel scooters are more stable on uneven footpaths, and foldable models can go in the car.
2. Key things to compare
- Weight and folding: If the chair or scooter needs to go in a car, check its folded size and how heavy it is to lift. Many electric models can be lifted in two parts.
- Range: Electric wheelchairs and scooters usually travel around 12 to 30 km per charge. Think about your longest normal trip and add a buffer, as hills, cold weather and heavier loads reduce range.
- Load capacity: Check the maximum user weight, typically 100 to 120 kg.
- Seat comfort: If you will sit for long periods, a wider, padded seat and good back support matter. Accessories like padded armrest pads can add comfort.
- Tyres: Solid tyres never go flat and need little maintenance. Larger rear wheels handle kerbs and gravel better.
- Safety: Electromagnetic brakes on electric models stop the chair automatically when you let go of the joystick. A wheelchair seat belt helps prevent sliding.
3. Think about where you will use it
Measure doorways, hallways and the space in your bathroom before you buy. Most standard wheelchairs need a doorway of at least 70 to 75 cm. If you live somewhere hilly, an electric wheelchair or scooter with a stronger motor will make a real difference.
4. Get advice if you can
A GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist can help you work out what will suit your needs best, and can tell you whether you may be eligible for funded equipment. If you are buying privately, choosing a supplier with stock in New Zealand means faster delivery and easier support.
Shop wheelchairs and mobility scooters at Paktec
Paktec stocks folding manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs and foldable mobility scooters with fast NZ-wide delivery and a 12 month warranty. Browse the full Wheelchairs & Mobility range, or contact us if you have any questions about which model is right for you.