Event Direct by Metro is a pre-booked shuttle bus service designed to make getting to big events easier, more reliable, and less stressful. It’s a direct, event-only service that runs from selected pickup hubs around Christchurch non-stop to the One NZ Stadium event precinct and back again after the event.
Important: Event Direct is for transport only. It does not include entry to the event or replace your event ticket.
On this page:
We expect to offer our shuttle buses for all major events at the stadium. Event Direct tickets are typically released 3–4 weeks before the event, so if you don't see your event listed yet, check back here soon.
Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early. Booking capacity will be dependent on the availability and prioritisation of fuel.
Book early and save. Early bird tickets offer 20% off for a limited time. Prices may vary by event, so select your event above to view ticket price details.
Event Direct is separate from the regular Metro bus network. Event Direct is pre-booked only. You cannot pay with a Metrocard, contactless Motu Move payment, or cash. Regular Metro services will not be increased for major events. We strongly encourage eventgoers to plan ahead and book Event Direct rather than relying on regular Metro services, which will still be used by customers travelling home to/from work, appointments and other everyday activities.
Before booking, please familiarise yourself with:
Jump up the page to the upcoming Event Direct services section. Choose your event to see available services and start your booking.
If you have questions about Event Direct by Metro, our team is here to help. Contact our customer service team on 03 366 8855 or metro@ecan.govt.nz. Or you may first want to check out the Frequently Asked Questions below.
Are concessions or kids’ prices available?
Prices are based on capacity, and so a standard fare has been set for all customers. Concessions (including SuperGold) are not available for this service. The only exception is for children under the age of two who travel free, providing they sit on their caregiver’s lap.
Are buses equipped to accommodate prams?
Yes, but prams must be folded up to allow space for other customers.
Are buses accessible for those with disabilities, mobility issues and/or using wheelchairs?
When booking please indicate your accessibility requirements using the tick box. We will make sure an accessible vehicle is available for you.
What payment options are available?
Payment must be made online when booking, via debit or credit card. There is no account-to-account payment option at this stage.
What are the expected journey times from the suburban hubs to the Stadium drop off points?
Pick-up times have been set to allow plenty of time for customers to get to the events and get settled before events begin. These times account for predicted traffic delays.
How soon after an event will the shuttles leave the Stadium stops (Latimer Square and the Ara Stop on Ferry Road)?
The shuttles will be available for departure 15-30 minutes after events finish/final whistle is blown. Buses will depart once full.
How will I know which shuttle bus to jump on after an event?
Buses will be labelled with their destination, and there will be signage set-up defining the queues for each destination. There will also be Event Direct staff at Latimer Square who will help direct customers. All customers heading to Sumner and Ferrymead will depart outside of Ara Institute of Canterbury on Ferry Road.
Why does the Sumner/Ferrymead service have a different drop-off/pick-up area?
We have made the drop-off/pick-up zone for this shuttle service outside of Ara Institute of Canterbury on Ferry Road as this will be a much more direct way of entering/leaving the city. This should significantly reduce journey times for these passengers.
How come the shuttles won’t be servicing Waimakariri and Selwyn?
Servicing locations such as Rolleston and Kaiapoi/Rangiora would be very challenging for us due to the excessive travel times involved, which would limit our ability to re-use vehicles. Mainland Rail is looking at establishing rail services from Rangiora, Rolleston and potentially Ashburton for events. We’d encourage you to get in touch with them for any further information on this.
Is there parking nearby to the suburban hubs? If so, are they time limited and what is the cost?
We have chosen suburban hub locations where our regular Metro services already travel to. This way, customers are used to travelling to these stops via their usual modes of transport to catch buses – whether that be by foot, bike, scooter, another Metro service, or car. While car parking is possible at each destination, it will be up to the customer to determine where they should park, abiding by any relevant rules.
What happens if I miss the Event Direct bus?
Unfortunately, we do not have capacity for staggered services, so customers who miss the Event Direct by Metro services will need to sort out alternative travel.
Can I cancel my ticket for a refund?
Based on our booking Terms and Conditions, customers may request the cancellation of a booking and a payment refund if it is outside of 7 days before the event. To request a refund, please email eventdirect@metro.co.nz, letting us know your booking order number, date of purchase and reason for the cancellation request. A team member will get back to you shortly.
What if I need to change or amend my booking?
The only way to change your booking is to request to cancel and create a new booking.
Can I select a different drop-off location to where I was picked up?
Yes, but you will have to make two separate one-way bookings, creating two different tickets. It’s not possible within the same purchase due to technical limitations. But we may look to improve this experience in the future.
How can I get back my lost property?
If you know which operator you journeyed with, please get in touch directly with them. See Operator contact details. If you’re not sure, let us know your details such as name, lost item description, shuttle service, time etc and we will contact our operators to check what has been handed in.
