Metlink will allow credit cards, debit cards and mobile payments on buses and trains from the 12th of April. Passengers can save up to 20 percent, but each transaction will include a 1.5 percent surcharge. Children, tertiary students and Community Services Card holders must keep using Snapper to access discounts.

The council says the surcharge is temporary and needed to cover costs as cash payments are phased out. Christchurch and Auckland already allow card payments without a fee, though both still require bus cards for concessions.

A national system, Motu Move, is planned for 2027. Metlink has paused Snapper upgrades while waiting for government progress.

A fare increase is scheduled for 15 May. Metlink says fuel costs have risen by $130,000 per week, with most buses running on diesel. Councillors warn that without government support, service cuts or further fare hikes are likely. Metlink says it could defer the May increase if funding is provided.

Public transport use has risen as fuel prices climb.

Source: Kaya Selby / Radio New Zealand

09/04/26