Catching the bus to school - all you need to know!

Start thinking about your child's new way to pay

From 23 November 2026, Metrocard and cash will be retired as we make the switch to Motu Move, our new payment system for public transport. There's still plenty of time to get ready for this change.

Important information

• Children and students who use Metro services, will need to choose a Motu Move way to pay.
• For most children a Motu Move card will be appropriate.
• Older children may prefer to use contactless payments with a debit card or device.
• Parents or caregivers can manage cards for their child or children from their own account. More info
• A child concession MUST be linked to their new way to pay to receive their cheaper fare.
• Motu Move cards cannot be topped up on the bus.

Head to motumove.govt.nz to get started or add your child's card to your account.

Metrocards can no longer be purchased but can continue to be topped up. Use up your remaining Metrocard balance before using your new way to pay. If you require a refund of your remaining balance, this will be available from late November.

You can read more about bus fares here.

New to catching the bus to school? 

Did you know that we have a passenger Code of Conduct? Check it out! This helps us make sure everyone has an excellent public transport experience. It applies to all Metro services, including school buses.

Do your bit to make every ride a positive one! A couple of key things to remember when you’re catching a bus include: 

• Please stay safe and queue well back from the kerb when you’re waiting for the bus to arrive. It’s important to keep a safe distance away from the bus as it pulls up.
• It’s always a good idea to give the bus a wave as it approaches. You can catch a school bus from any bus stop along the school route when you want to be picked up. If you’re not sure where to get off or have questions, just ask your driver! They’re there to help. 
• Please be respectful to everyone on the bus, this means no swearing or offensive language.  
• You can listen to music on the bus, but please use your headphones. 
• It’s ok to bring a drink on board the bus if it has a secure lid. 
• You can bring food in a secure package, but please don’t eat on the bus. 
• Help us keep all our buses clean and tidy by taking your rubbish away with you, and please no tagging or graffiti. Video surveillance is in use on urban buses and ferries at all times, and all complaints are investigated. 
• Metro buses have assigned priority seating areas at the front. This is clearly labelled and reserved for people who have mobility issues that make it harder for them to take a seat at the rear of the bus. Sometimes people have mobility issues that aren’t obvious, so please as a rule keep this area clear for others and take a seat further back.

Plan your bus trip

Head over to our School Services page to find your school and check out the route and schedule. 

You can also view all school routes' map by clicking here.

Or access our Journey Planner tool to plan your trip on an urban bus. 

Got questions? Get in touch!