Fans left frustrated by taxi issues on opening day of Hong Kong Sevens
Spectators lament taxi arrangements at Kai Tak Sports Park with some having to wait up to 45 minutes
Hong Kong Sevens spectators leaving Kai Tak Stadium using taxis and ride-hailing services have complained of confusion and long waiting times, as the venue hosts the mega sporting event for the first time.
The complaints on Friday evening were in complete contrast to earlier in the day, with spectators giving glowing reviews to the public transport arrangements at the 50,000-seat stadium.
Thousands flocked to the venue for the start of the three-day tournament and while those who took the MTR were happy about the convenient connections, frustration mounted over the taxi arrangements, with some saying they had to wait for up to 45 minutes.
Adding to the frustration of the long waiting time were those who had ordered taxis via Uber, drawing the annoyance of passengers who were passed by cabs picking up their customers.
Finance-sector worker James Hill, who has attended the Sevens 15 times, waited in line for a taxi for 45 minutes, while also trying to call an Uber, only to be told the drivers did not know the way.
“These taxis are cancelling from where we are, they won’t pick us up here,” he said, while adding that some taxis arriving were there to pick up customers who placed bookings via ride-hailing services.