Changes to Metlink Fares
Fares are changing for under 25s, from 1 May 2024
The government has made the decision to withdraw the government funding for the age-based concessions that have been in place since 1 September 2023. As a result, new fares will apply from 1 May 2024.
What’s changing for students from 1 May?
Under 13 Free Pass (5-12 years) - Free travel ends, and 50% off adult fare applies on all Metlink services.
Child Fare (13-18 years or still in secondary school) - 75% discount off adult fare ends, and 50% off adult fare applies on all Metlink services for children aged between 13 to 16 years old (or older if still at secondary school).
Children over 16 who are no longer in secondary school will no longer qualify for this concession and will need to buy a Red Snapper card, and the full adult fare will apply unless they are eligible for another concession.
Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility - Free travel ends for 5–12-year-olds and 75% discount ends for 13- 18-year-olds. 50% off adult fare now applies for these groups through the Accessible concession.
Children must tag on and off using their Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility card ONLY to travel on the Accessible Concession. The Green Snapper Card will no longer be required for travel, removing the hassle of carrying two cards.
To be eligible for concessions, a student must use a valid Red or Green Snapper card with the appropriate concession loaded.
Children are still required to tag on and tag off the bus or trains using their Snapper card, to avoid being charged default fares.
*Some exclusions apply (including Metlink on demand services and Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility taxis) and concession discounts are based on the full adult fare with applicable discount during off-peak hours.
We strongly encourage all students (including Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility card holders) to top up their Snapper cards to ensure they have enough credit.
For more information, visit metlink.org.nz/fares or contact us on 0800 801 700.