Metlink is introducing Snapper as an electronic payment method across the Metlink rail network during November 2022. Paying train fares with Snapper is cheaper, faster and easier than using cash or paper tickets.

More information is available from the Snapper on Rail website or you can call Metlink’s Contact Centre on 0800 801 700

Here’s what you need to know

Tag on and tag off with Snapper

Paying with your Snapper card is easy, simply tag on and off for a cheaper, faster and easier trip. Snapper card readers are located near the entrances and exits at train stations.

Why do I need a Snapper card?

From 31 December 2022, we are saying ‘goodbye’ to paper tickets across the rail network. You will still be able to pay with cash for a single trip on board the train from 1 January 2023 but remember, paying with Snapper is at least 25% cheaper than the cash fare.

How do I get a Snapper card?

You might already have a Snapper card for your bus trips. A Total Mobility card or even some school student ID cards are Snapper cards in disguise – and are ready to use on the train. If you don’t have a Snapper card you can buy one from a Snapper retailer, the Snapper website, or at the ticket window at Wellington Station. Visit Snapper.co.nz to find your nearest option.

When you have a Snapper card, simply top up at a Snapper retailer, kiosk, at the ticket window at Wellington Railway Station or use the Snapper iOS app on i-phone 7/iOS13 and above, or the Android app with NFC smartphones.

One Snapper card per student

Every student will need their own Snapper card to pay for their own train fare. This means students won’t be able to tag on their friends. Unlike on bus, the platform card readers can only tag on one person at a time.

Transferring trains on the same line

Students may need to transfer trains on the same line to get to and from school. When paying with Snapper, follow these steps:

At your boarding station

1. Tag on at the station where you start your journey

At your transfer station

1. Get off the train but DON’T tag off
2. Wait for the connecting train but DON’T tag on before you board.

At your destination station

1. Tag off