Getting started with Metro

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 Whether you're using the bus or ferry to travel to work, school, or your next appointment - Metro will get you there.

On this page:

  1. Where does Metro travel?
  2. How much does it cost?
  3. How do I pay?
  4. Plan your ride
  5. Signalling your driver
  6. Accessible travel
  7. Get help

Where does Metro travel?

There are 28 Metro services in the Greater Christchurch network, from high frequency buses crisscrossing and orbiting the city, and routes that reach nearby towns in the Waimakariri and Selwyn districts. Check out the Metro Network Map to see which routes run through your neighbourhood.

How much does it cost?

Check out all Metro Fares here.

Concession fares are available for:

  • Children aged 5-18
  • Youth aged 19-25 years
  • SuperGold cardholders
  • Community Services cardholders
  • Total Mobility cardholders

To receive a concession you will need to link it to your Motu Move payment method. Find out more on our Concessions page.

SuperGold free travel hours are from 9am weekdays and all weekend. If you have already linked your concession then you don't need to show the driver your SuperGold card.

Please note: SuperGold hours will be changing from 23 November. See our media release for more information.

See current fare cap information 

How do I pay?

We offer several ways to pay for your trip, depending on what suits you best:

  • Contactless debit or credit card
  • Smartphone or smartwatch
  • Prepaid Motu Move card

The following payment options are still available but will be retired from 23 November 2026.

  • Pay with a Metrocard 
  • Pay with cash

Click here to check out all payment options in detail.

Plan your ride

Turn up at the right time for your ride, every time, with our real-time journey planning and Next bus tools.

You can also use Google Maps or the Transit App if you prefer.

Signalling your driver

Make sure you're visible when waiting at a bus stop, and please give the bus a wave as it approached. This helps the driver know you need their service, and they’ll pull over to let you on.

Accessible travel

All vehicles have priority seating areas near the front for passengers with mobility aids and pushchairs.

We welcome passengers with service dogs or disability assist dogs, and all buses have super-low floors, wheelchair ramps, and the ability to “kneel” to meet the kerb.

Find out more about accessible travel.

Got questions?

Our friendly customer service team are available on 03 366 88 55 from 7:30am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.

You can also email us on metro@ecan.govt.nz. Otherwise, the most common travel FAQs can be found online.

Issues with contactless payments or your Motu Move card?

Please contact the Motu Move team.