Greater Christchurch public transport fares will increase from July this year, following a decision made by Environment Canterbury (Canterbury Regional Council) on Wednesday.
The Council voted on the timing of the changes, which were originally set to coincide with the launch of the national ticketing solution Motu Move. However, delays to the rollout prompted the Council to bring the fare increase forward.
Environment Canterbury Chair Craig Pauling said the focus of today’s decision was when the new fares would take effect, rather than whether to raise them.
“In December, we announced that we needed to increase how much it costs to use the bus and ferry,” Pauling said. “Today’s decision was about the timing on when the new fare prices will come into effect.”
“We had originally planned to do this in line with when the national ticketing solution (Motu Move) gets rolled out in Canterbury. However, a delay to the roll-out means we’ve had to make a decision about when to start the new fares.”
Pauling acknowledged the pressure fare increases could place on households.
“We know that any change to the household budget will have an impact,” he said. “However after spending many hours going over the numbers, we’re pleased that we can provide reliable and accessible public transport for a maximum Metrocard adult fare of $3.”
Councillor Joe Davies said public transport remained a core service provided by Environment Canterbury.
“We’re proud to be responsible for public transport in Canterbury and are committed to future-proofing our network,” Davies said. “We are working towards being able to provide a world-class service for the community.”
While cash fares will remain unchanged for now, Metrocard fares from July 2025 will be:
-
Standard adult fare: $3.00
-
Child fare (5–18 years): $1.50
-
Community Services Card holder: $1.50
-
Total Mobility Card holder: $2.00
-
Youth fare (19–24 years): $2.50
Fares for the Diamond Harbour Ferry will rise to $5 for adults, with concession rates in line with those applied to buses.
The full list of changes will be published on metro.co.nz in June.
