Motu Move cards

Motu Move Tag On

Prepaid Motu Move cards are now available

Motu Move cards are now available for customers that would like one.

Motu Move cards are prepaid transport cards which can be topped up and function similar to a Metrocard. These are great for children, or if you prefer not to use contactless payments.

If you need a prepaid Motu Move card, they are currently available at no cost for a limited time from Motu Move retailers and the Bus Interchange only until 22 November 2026. Cards require a minimum first top-up of $5 when you collect the card.

From 23 November cards will cost $10 from retailers (plus minimum top up). Children and Community Services Card holders will still be eligible for a free card after this date but must pick these up from the Bus Interchange.

Picking up a Motu Move card in person

There are around 100 Motu Move retailers across Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri – and more will be added over the coming weeks. Cards are also available at the Bus Interchange.

Look for the Motu Move sign outside stores, or see the Motu Move website to find out where you can pick up and top up Motu Move cards.

→ Retail location list 

→ Retail map 

Ordering a Motu Move card online

Motu Move cards can be ordered online from motumove.govt.nz.

Please note that cards purchased online cost $10 plus a minimum first top-up of $5.

Cards ordered online need to be activated first using the instructions that come with the card.

Important information for Motu Move cards

The minimum first top-up amount for a Motu Move card is $5. After the first top-up, the minimum top up amount is $1.

Motu Move cards can only be topped up online or at participating Motu Move retailers.

Motu Move cards cannot be topped up onboard buses or ferries.

Contact the Motu Move team for any issues with your Motu Move card or payment.

→ More information about Motu Move cards 

Concessions (including SuperGold)

If you have a child, youth, Community Services Card, SuperGold or Total Mobility concession you can link it to your Motu Move card.

Linking your concession will ensure you pay your usual discounted fare or get SuperGold free travel during SuperGold hours.

If you are a parent or caregiver you can manage cards for several family members from one account. Simply add your child's Motu Move card to your account and link their child or youth concession.

→ Find out more about linking concessions 

Paying for others

From 23 November, you can use a Motu Move card to pay for other passengers.

Before this date, keep using your Metrocard or cash if you need to pay for others regularly.

Don't forget that you will still need to choose a new way to pay before these payment options are removed!

More information and payment issues

For more information, or if you have a problem with your Motu Move card, visit motumove.govt.nz or call the Motu Move team on 0800 66 77 88 between 8am and 5:30pm.