Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri bus and ferry customers are encouraged to make the switch to Motu Move, before Metrocard and onboard cash payments end on 23 November 2026.

Since last November, customers have been able to pay a standard adult fare with contactless payments through Motu Move, with Community Services Card, and SuperGold Card concessions added in February 2026, and more than two million trips have been paid for this way.

Now, customers can link child, youth and Total Mobility concessions to a contactless debit or credit card, smartphone, smartwatch, rather than carrying a public transport card.

For those who prefer to use a prepaid Motu Move card, Motu Move cards are available from over 100 retailers. You can find your nearest retailer here, or they can be ordered online for a $10 fee. Until 22 November 2026, you can get a card from a Motu Move retailer without paying the usual $10 card fee. You will need to add a minimum initial top-up of $5 when you get your card.

Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) Public Transport Core Service Lead Councillor Joe Davies is pleased for the final phase of the project to be rolled out in Greater Christchurch in November.

“We are proud to bring this national project to Canterbury first. So, now’s the time, if you’re a public transport customer of ours, to pick how you want to pay going forward. The good news is, if you’ve already got a contactless credit or debit card, you don’t need to get a new bus card. You can pay for your bus the same way you pay for your groceries,”he said.

Customers eligible for concessions, including SuperGold Cardholders, will need to link these to their chosen contactless payment method or Motu Move card before 23 November, to receive their discount or free travel. This can be done at home, by visiting motumove.govt.nz. Customers needing support can find information on the back of the card.

As a reminder, SuperGold free travel hours will also change from 23 November, meaning SuperGold Cardholders will need to pay a fare for travel on weekdays before 9.00am and between 3.00pm and 6.30pm. They will still get their free off-peak travel benefits when tagging on with Motu Move.

There will be Motu Move ambassadors out in the community this month, to support seniors and others who need a hand.  You can find your nearest location here. In the meantime, all the information you will need is available online at motumove.govt.nz, including the different ways you can pay, and how to link any concessions.

Customers have until 23 November 2026 to make the switch to Motu Move.