Children aged 5-12 currently travel FREE on all Metro services when using their Metrocard.
Kids under 5 continue to travel free (no Metrocard required for the wee ones).
Fare changes from 1 May due to government funding alteration
The government’s removal of the free Metrocard concessions for 5-12-year-olds means children between these ages will need to pay $1 bus and $2 ferry concessions from 1 May 2024. This is following the government’s changes to its Community Connect concessions scheme. These are nationwide changes, decided by the new government.
Children aged 5-12-years-old who use Metro services will need to start topping-up their Metro cards again to enable them to pay the $1 child fares from 1 May. Parents and caregivers can set-up their children’s Metrocards to automatically top-up through their online account.
Children under 5 will continue to travel for free without a Metrocard.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my fare changing?
The new government has changed what it funds through its Community Connect scheme. This effects every public transport authority in New Zealand.
Are these fare changes only happening in Canterbury?
No, these are government changes, so they are happening nation-wide. The changes will have a different impact on each public transport authority, depending on what its local council has agreed to fund.
When do these changes come into effect?
From 1 May 2024.
How do I know what my fare is going to cost now?
If you’re in Greater Christchurch, all fares remain the same other than for 5-12-year-old's, who will now be required to pay $1 bus concessions from 1 May.
You can look at our fares here.
Remember your Metrocard!
To enjoy these great fares, every child needs to use their own Metrocard.
Here's what you need to know:
Always carry your Metrocard: For free travel, it's essential that if you're aged 5-12, you have your Metrocard with you every time you travel. The government's concession is exclusively available for Metrocard holders (children's cash fares cost $2).
Travelling with friends or family? Everyone aged five and above needs their own Metrocard to receive the fantastic new fares. Cash prices of $2 for a child and $4 for an adult apply on the bus otherwise so if you're paying for others with your Metrocard, make sure your Metrocard has sufficient credit.
Watch your balance: All Metrocard's must have a balance of $0.00 or higher for boarding, so please ensure that you maintain the balance on the card even when the fare is free. You can still easily top up online or on the bus.
If you are looking to reduce your child's Metrocard balance to $0.00, you can contact us to either transfer the balance to another member of your family's Metrocard or request a refund. We recommend the transfer as the simplest and quickest option. Refunds can take significant time to process.
If your child is nearing age 13, or you think the Metrocard may be used to pay for others, we strongly recommend keeping the credit on their card.
Tap and save: Your concession will be automatically applied when you tap your Metrocard, using the date of birth registered to the card. Enjoy the benefits without any additional effort!
What if I am also eligible for the Community Services Card concession?
Some customers will have the option to choose between multiple concessions. Customers under 25 do not need to apply for other concessions, as your age-related fare will be applied automatically through the date of birth associated with your Metrocard.